​What is a doula?
A person who is trained to advise and provide continuous physical, emotional, and informational support to the laboring person before, during, and shortly after childbirth to help achieve the healthiest, most satisfying experience. The word doula comes from the Greek word doulē which translates to female helper or maidservant.
I'm more than a hired helper, though. Many of my clients come to me for advocacy support because they know I understand hospital policies and dynamics that don't often put their patients in the forefront. They want to avoid being 1 of the 4 women in this country who report obstetrical violence. I present them with unbiased options and their rights. 
I help my clients grow their confidence, find their purpose in labor, and keep calm when decision-making overwhelms them. I am a trusted partner in care.
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​Will a doula take my partner's role away?
Absolutely not! I will help guide your partner to best support you. I will show them and tell them how to bring you comfort within their abilities. Often, my support encourages the partner to find their strengths. But, if you prefer your partner to take on a different role, then I will also support that. I respect your family dynamics.
Having a hard time convincing your partner to hire a doula? Read here!

​What's the difference between a doula and a midwife?
A doula is not medically trained but has plenty of knowledge on what happens to your body during pregnancy, labor, delivery, and immediately after birth. She also knows plenty of comfort measures and techniques to help cope with a difficult labor. A doula is also well-versed on common procedures and medications in labor. One of the biggest differences is that a midwife can deliver a baby and administer some medications. A doula is unable to perform clinical tasks.
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​Can a doula support me even after birth?
As a birth doula, I will provide you with in-home support for up to 2 hours postpartum. Support includes feeding assistance, light housework, meal prep, pet and sibling care, and much more. Whatever it takes to help you feel your best and recover. 
There are also specialized doulas called postpartum doulas who have advanced knowledge of the recovery period, newborn care, feeding support, and sibling/partner dynamics.

​When is the best time to connect with a doula?
It's never too early or too late to hire a doula! But, because I like to meet with my clients and their family, it's best to meet at least 2 months prior to your due date. It's important to establish a relationship so I'm better able to meet your needs. We will typically meet a few times to discuss your birth plan, comfort measures, and address any concerns you might have.  
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​How will my family benefit from having a doula?​
A doula can help improve connections and communication between the birthing person and their family by encouraging open dialogue. She can provide the family with opportunities to become active and supportive participants in the birth, which will create a positive experience. After birth, a doula can help the birthing person process their experience and help them recover emotionally from such a huge milestone. A doula will also give support-people respite so they can better attend during labor.

​Does a doula only support unmedicated births?
Every kind of birth has its challenges and requires different types of support. There is no one way to give birth, which is why I support epidural use, unmedicated births, C-sections, inductions, and everything in between. 

​Where can a doula provide support?
I will go where needed! From early labor to birth. From your home to your birth center or hospital. From texts to video calls. Wherever and whenever you need support, I will be there. 
Please note that I am not able to deliver your baby under any circumstances.
Will a doula force me to follow my birth plan? What if I change my mind?
Birth plans are amazing tools that can help you discover what you want in your experience and how to handle the unexpected. I will gently remind you of your plans and encourage you and your partner to consider the benefits and risks of all the options available to you. I will provide you with informational support but will not obligate you to stick to your plan. I just want to make sure that whatever decision you make is coming from a place of understanding and not fear.
"Having someone there that cares the way Jazmin does is hard to find. I will not go through labor without a doula. And if I have the opportunity I would have Jazmin there for every birth." -Hilda