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BIRTH DOULA faq's

 
 

WHEN SHOULD I HIRE A BIRTH DOULA?

The best time to hire a doula is really personal, however, sometime towards the end of the second trimester is often recommended. This allows you, your partner(s), and/or support persons to establish a strong connection. That being said, I’m comfortable working with clients at any stage in their pregnancy. It can also help if you’ve had the opportunity to take a childbirth education class before working with a doula. This can make prenatal visits more focused.

CAN A DOULA SUPPORT ME IF I HAVE A CESAREAN BIRTH?

Absolutely! Whether your Cesarean birth is scheduled, or unplanned, I will be there to support you. I will continue to advocate with you and facilitate communication between you and your care provider as new questions arise. Depending on how many support persons are allowed in the OR, I may or may not stay by your side during the actual procedure, but I will be there afterward to continue my support post-delivery. Once you are home, having a postpartum doula can be incredibly helpful and supportive after a Cesarean birth, as there can be reduced mobility and a longer physical recovery than with a genital birth.

** During Covid-19 most hospitals are only allowing 1 support person for Cesarean births, scheduled or unplanned.**

WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU CAN'T ATTEND MY BIRTH?

I will make every effort possible to attend your birth! Of course, there is always the very small possibility that an emergency might arise. I typically work with a doula partner so that you are never left without doula support during your labour and birth. 

Reasons my doula partner or back-up would step in to support you:

  • I have an overlapping birth occurring at the same time

  • Emergency or illness

  • I have supported you for more than 20 hours, and am no longer able to perform my role to my fullest capacity

WHEN DO YOU SCHEDULE YOUR PRENATAL VISITS?

After you have hired me as your doula, I will collaborate with you to set up our prenatal meetings. Typically, I like to see my clients around the week 30-32 and then again around 34-35 weeks. This way, we know more about how your pregnancy is progressing and any health-related developments that will play a part in your labour and birth.