What can I offer as a Doula?
As a doula I trust and understand the physiological process of childbirth and respect the psychological and social impact a birth experience has on the whole family. I provide practical, emotional and informational support. I am your advocate when necessary and ensure that you understand your birth rights when if comes to your choices.
I do not give medical advice, or carry out clinical examinations.
I work together with you to attain a safe, calm and positive birthing experience. I remain by your side throughout your labour and birth. I am committed to holding space for you, helping you to trust in your body, and making sure you are equipped with the information you need to make informed decisions. I am here to support you in a non-judgemental way through pregnancy, childbirth and postnatally
Clinical research has shown that when a Doula is present at birth you are:
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More likely to have a spontaneous vaginal birth
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More likely to have a shorter labour
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More likely to be successful with breastfeeding
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Less likely to give birth by Caesarean section
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Less likely to give birth with vacuum extraction or forceps
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Less likely to need pain medication including epidurals
Birth Doula Packages
Initial Meeting
First meeting is free of charge. This is an opportunity to get to know each other and discuss my package in more detail.
Birth
On -call 24/7 from 10 days before estimated due date - 42 weeks
Attendance and support during the birth. Ready to be present as soon as you need me, no matter what stage of labour.
Antenatal
Here we explore your options and preferences. Topics covered may include birth physiology, stages of labour, how hormones work and breastfeeding depending on your need.
Postnatal
Opportunity to talk about your birth experience and also raise any concerns
Standard Package
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2x 2hr Antenatal sessions
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2hr Breastfeeding preparation session
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Phone and email support throughout pregnancy until 6 weeks after birth
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On-call from 10 days before estimated due date with unlimited phone and text support
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Birth attendance
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2 x 2hr Postnatal visit
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Access to borrow books from my resource library
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Use of TENS machine (if available)
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Birth Pool Hire
Premium Hypnobirthing Package
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8 hour Hypnobirthing Birth Preparation Course (split over 4 sessions)
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Phone and email support throughout pregnancy until 6 weeks after birth
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On-call from 10 days before estimated due date with unlimited phone and text support
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Birth attendance
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2 x 2hr Postnatal visit
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Access to borrow books from my resource library
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Use of TENS machine (if available)
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Birth Pool Hire
You will also receive:
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Positive Birth Affirmations MP3 and affirmation cards
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Guided Relaxation MP3s (including birth preparation, resource building and fear releasing)
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Access to The Birth Uprising pre-recorded online hypnobirthing course (RRP £45)
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Access to 5 additional, pre-recorded courses including breastfeeding preparation, pregnancy yoga, baby massage, baby wearing and introducing solid foods
* I also offer tailored made packages to meet the varying needs of individual clients
Virtual Doula Support
Think of me as your Pocket Doula!
Providing support online (via email, and zoom) and by phone no matter where in the world you are located.
I'm available to help you in a variety of ways including:
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Ongoing support and education via WhatsApp from the minute you book until 6 weeks postpartum
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2 x 2hour antenatal meetings via zoom
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Support throughout the entirety of your labour via phone, WhatsApp and/or video call (as much as you need)
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2 x 1.5 hour postnatal meetings via zoom -postnatal visit upon your return home to debrief about your birth experience and offer that initial postnatal support with feeding / postnatal recovery etc
Postnatal Support
The early weeks after birth can be overwhelming. As your postnatal doula my role is to "mother the mother". I will be there to offer support, companionship, and assist with newborn care. I am there to take away some of the day to day pressures allowing you to bond with your new baby.
Support might include (these will vary depending on the needs of the family):
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Support with feeding, bath time, nappy changes, calming baby
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Light housework, meal preparation, shopping, errands
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Signposting local groups and services
My aim as a postnatal doula is to build your confidence as you navigate the first few months as a parent and facilitate a smooth transition. I will be there as a friend to sit with you and listen.
My standard ad hoc rate is £30 per hour, depending on your requirements.
For a minimum of three hours at a time
Night Doula
As a night doula I look after your baby whilst you get some rest.
Each overnight plan is tailored to meet the needs of the family.
Support from 9pm until 6am
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Juggle light chores early evening, before everyone goes to sleep
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Feed baby and/or bring to parent to breastfeed
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Discuss and help to maintain milk supply if necessary
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Wind, change, calm and comfort baby back to sleep
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Provide a full report of your baby's activity the following morning