You CAN.
FAQ
Ok, you're a Doula but...
Do you perform any physical examinations?
No. No. No. Doulas are not clinical providers and aren't required to have a certification or degree, therefore I cannot perform any medical examinations or give any medical advice. If this is the support you are looking for, then you may want to have a midwife as part of your birth team. Contact me and I can direct you to midwives in your area.
If you only provide virtual birth support, who will support me during labor?
This is a great question and one you may need to consider before adding me to your birth team. For some birthing people, you may have a partner or family member that can take the strategies I teach you and use those to support you during labor. For others, you may not have a person to physically be there with you during labor. My hope is that my Birth Empowerment and Preparation sessions provide you with the resources necessary for you to be mentally and physically prepared to go through labor and delivery even without me being in the space with you. You can video call or text me during labor if you need assistance with providers or comfort techniques. You WILL be EMPOWERED AND PREPARED with or without me present!
Aren't doulas only used for unmedicated home births?
ABSOLUTELY NOT! All birthing people need to be supported during their birth no matter how or where you choose to have your baby. As a matter of fact, I don't only provide my postpartum support to birthing people--if you are a foster or adoptive parent, I also can support you as you navigate the new addition to your family.
How will hiring you affect my partner’s role during the birth?
We are all an important piece of your birth TEAM! In no way am I there to replace your partner. In fact, during our Birth Empowerment and Preparation sessions we will discuss the important role that your partner will play during pregnancy, labor, and postpartum!
So is a Postpartum Doula just a nanny?
No. My role in the postpartum period is mainly to give the birthing person and partner rest and support as you adjust to the new member in your family. My main focus is on the birthing person's mental and physical well-being. If taking care of the baby is what you need to be able to sleep for a few hours during the day, then that is what I will do. If a nanny is what your family needs, then I can also direct you in the right place to find the best one for you!