Prenatal Visits
Before the birth of your baby, you and I will meet to develop a trusting relationship and
discuss your emotions, fears, questions, and goals for birth.  During prenatal meetings, we
may develop an official Birth Plan.  We can practice labor positions, discuss your preferences
for the labor environment, or address any other concerns you have.  Prenatal massage is
available during a prenatal visit for no extra charge.

Birth Doula Support During Labor
As your Birth Doula, I will go on-call when you reach 37 weeks gestation or begin to show
signs of early labor, whichever comes first. 
This way, when you go into labor, I will be prepared to come to you as soon as you need me.  It is a good idea to keep me posted as indications of labor increase.  You may request my support as early in labor as you need, and I will stay by your side through the entire duration of your labor and birth.
During labor, I will support you however you need to be supported as an individual - be it labor massage, aromatherapy, or wiping your brow.
I am also trained in rotational positioning, which both relieves pain and encourages your baby to rotate to the optimum position for birth.  This decreases both the need for pain medication and the risk of Ceserean!
You can count on me to never leave your side as you bring your new baby into the world.  Even in a hospital birth, labor and delivery nurses can be very busy! 
As your Birth Doula I will provide continuous support, which is proven to make labor shorter, easier, and more memorable for you.

Postpartum Support
Beginning one hour after the baby is born, postpartum support involves extra support and care
as you and your baby recover from the birth. 
This can include reflecting on the birth to express emotions, massage for pain relief, or addressing parenting concerns.  During this time, the lactation consultation takes place if desired.  Postpartum support is optional.

Lactation Support
As a Birth Doula, I have studied lactation and breastfeeding extensively.  With a lactation consultation, I can show you different breastfeeding positions and techniques, as well as assist with latching on.  We can go over options for pumping, dietary options during breastfeeding, and other concerns you may have.  Lactation support is optional.

Postpartum Visit(s)
All clients receive one free postpartum visit.  During this meeting, we will reflect on the labor and birth.  Expressing emotions through postpartum counseling is very effective at preventing postpartum depression and anxiety.  We can also discuss your concerns about parenting or any questions you have about your baby.  Additional postpartum visits can be arranged.  Postpartum visits are optional, but if there will be no postpartum meeting, special arrangements will have to be made regarding payment - see "Payment" to the right.