FAQ

What is a doula? 

A doula is a continuous, non-medical birth support person. I am trained to understand the physiological and emotional needs of the birthing person and provides an objective perspective and gentle touch to ensure you feel prepared. I work with and for YOU!

Some of the benefits of doula support include:

• decreased medical intervention during labor

• reduction of overall cesarean (c-section) rate by 50%

• reduction in the use of and request for pain medication during labor by up to 60%

• reduction in the length of labor by 25%

• reported increased satisfaction with the birth experience

What does a doula do?

Giving birth is one of the most memorable and exciting, yet sometimes overwhelming, experiences a birthing person can have as you bring a new life into this world. As a doula, my role is to ensure this experience for you and your partner is safe, supported, and positive no matter where you choose to give birth. 

As your birth doula I work within my scope of practice to provide non-judgmental informational, physical, and emotional support to women and their families during labor and birth. I facilitate communication between you and your caregiver to ensure you are making informed decisions regarding your birth. I also provide support during the postpartum period to help with the transition into parenthood.

As your doula I do not:

• provide medical care or advice

• perform clinical tasks such as vaginal exams

• make medical decisions for the birthing person or family, I do however help you get the necessary information and clarity so you make the best decision

• speak directly to clinical staff regarding medical decision. You and your partner will speak on your own behalf, however I will discuss your concerns with you and suggest options as well as encourage you to voice your opinions and questions with your care provider. I will also remind you if there is a departure from your birth plan.

Does a doula replace my physician or care provider for my birth?

Your doula should never replace your healthcare provider. My role is to enhance the interaction and communication between you and your care provider to ensure a healthy and positive birth experience.

What does virtual doula support look like during COVID-19?

It is my goal to make sure you still feel supported during this time. To do this, we will conduct virtual prenatal visits using DOXY, which is a HIPAA compliant telemedicine portal. You will still have unlimited email and phone access starting at 36 weeks through birth.

During birth you have the option to use the DOXY link provided to do a video conference so I am able to coach you and your support system through the birthing process, or we can do a phone call.

Post delivery, we will have virtual postpartum visits to check on you and baby.

You will also be provided with digital resources to help with preparation for baby and the postpartum period.

What type of payment methods are acccepted?

Once we have determined we are a perfect doula-parent match and have discussed the best birthing support package for your needs, a 50% deposit is secured and the remaining payment due at or before 36 weeks. 

An invoice will be submitted and payment is accepted through cash, paypal, money order or cashiers check.

Extended payment plans and sliding scale options are available for those who qualify for the Birth Roots Program. 

Gift certificate options are available for families that may want to cover the costs for the birthing person. 

Does insurance cover the cost of a doula?

Some insurance companies will reimburse the cost of your doula, however you must still pay out of pocket to cover the cost of service. Check with your insurance company to see if you are eligible and I can help you complete any necessary paperwork.

Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and Flexible Saving Accounts (FSA) are also another option for payment.

When should I hire a doula?

This is completely up to you, however, as you reach the latter stages of your pregnancy keep in mind that baby can come at any time and you may not reap all the benefits of having a doula. I would encourage seeking out a doula as early as possible to ensure availability and the opportunity to truly prepare for your birth and postpartum period. 

Does a doula only support home births?

This is a common misconception. However, as your doula I support you wherever and however you choose to give birth, whether that be at home, in a hospital or in a birthing center. This is your experience, I am simply a support to ensure that it is safe, supported, and positive. 

Does a doula replace my partner or family during birth?

A doula should never be seen as a replacement for your partner or family. I am an additional support person to help support you physically and emotionally through the labor and birth experience and fill in the gaps with information you or your partner may be lacking. In fact the support of a doula during birth allows your partner and family to be present in the moment with you and be a more intimate emotional support. I can also help coach partner or family in how to be of support to you during this time.