Childbirth Support Services
The birth of a child is a time of immense change. From pregnancy, through to the postpartum, (also known as the fourth trimester), it is normal to need help. Women who are supported through this transition report greater feelings of well being and healthy attachment to their babies. Below are the support services I can offer your family.
Private Prenatal Education/Birth Planning Consultation
As a Lamaze instructor, I will bring the most current evidence based research about your care options. My aim is to help you gain the confidence you require to birth your baby in the most healthy and normal way for you. I teach the Lamaze "Six Care Practices that Support Normal Birth" (for more info go to
www.lamaze.org) , non-medicinal relaxation techniques, what to expect in hospital including use of medicinal pain relief, interventions, home birth (including water birth) support, breastfeeding support, and postpartum care of yourselves and baby. I will help you clarify your priorities for your birth in terms of birth planning. This can take place in the comfort of your own home, where you will have one on one opportunity to receive the support you desire. (if you have a couple you would like to join the series would be acceptable as well for a special price)
Pay what you feel it is worth. Suggested minimum $250
Postpartum Support Doula
In some cultures it is customary for the new mother to spend the first thirty days of the "baby moon" in bed where her only duty is to breastfeed, rest, and bond with her baby. Surrounded by women in her community, she need not lift a finger. Wouldn't it be nice! Culturally we have different customs, however rest, learning to breastfeed, and bonding are still vitally important. The postpartum involves establishing your new normal, as family life is forever altered. The changes can be overwhelming along with delightfully blissful. I can lend a helping hand as well as be a resource for information. A postpartum doula is not a nanny. My job is to help you to trust your instincts and your natural authority as the parent of your new loved one. I can support your breastfeeding, and lend a hand while your family adjusts. Such tasks might include nutrition and meal providing, breastfeeding support, nurturing siblings, light housework, helping with multiples, helping to welcome and gatekeep visitors, and other tasks subject to negotiation. In a nutshell, this is a time to mother the mother. It would be an honour.
Right now I am only offering daytime/evening support at 4 hour intervals. $25/hour
Birth Support Doula (booking for December due dates)
When a woman is supported, her voice is heard, her choices are respected, and she does not feel alone, birth is amazing. It is the rite of passage into motherhood. It is hard work and challenging, and one of the greatest accomplishment one can achieve. This birth is the first encounter between you and your baby,and will be remembered in vivid detail for a lifetime. Your Doula is there to help you feel safe and supported. Your Doula is there to help to make your birth a beautiful and positive memory. As part of a birth support team, I offer non-medicinal pain relief options, emotional support, reliable evidence based care information, and a compassionate ear for you to voice your concerns. I can help support you in making breastfeeding a success. The package includes two prenatal meetings, the birth, and up to two postpartum visits. $600-800