FAQS
Answers to frequently asked questions about my services -
What is a Birth Doula?
A Birth Doula is a supportive companion who helps you stay as comfortable and confident as possible during labor and birth. They use techniques like counterpressure, massage, verbal affirmations, and other comfort measures to help you through the process. They also advocate for you and help with communication to make sure you feel heard and supported, giving you the best chance for a positive birthing experience.
Why should I hire a Birth Doula?
Besides the reasons listed in the above response, you should hire a birth doula because you deserve an additional team mate whose only focus is you and who is also comfortable in the birth setting. While partners, family, or friends can use techniques that doula's offer, doula's bring their experience, energy, and knowledge on your behalf so that you and your other teammates don't have to worry about what comes next.
What does doula support not include?
Doula's are not medical providers, meaning their services should not include any of the following: medical tasks (placing IV's, blood pressure checks, cervical exams, etc.), provide medical advice (I can tell you about my experiences and provide you with evidence-based resources, but you should always refer to your provider before making medical decisions), or provide information regarding dosages of medications. If your doula is attempting any of these tasks, please consider looking for a new doula.
When should I hire a doula?
The earlier, the better! Ideally, you should secure your doula by the middle of your pregnancy. This allows plenty of time to build trust, schedule prenatal visits, and create your birth plan. It also helps ensure your doula is available. That said, it’s never too late to ask.
How do I pay for your services?
I accept payments via Zelle, check, or cash. A $200 retainer fee is due at your first prenatal visit and will be applied toward the total cost of my doula services. The remaining balance is kindly requested by your 37th week of pregnancy.
Can I use insurance to cover your services?
At this time, my services are not covered by insurance. However, if cost is a concern, please don’t hesitate to reach out—I’m happy to discuss options and explore how we might make it work. Additionally, the Utah Doula Association offers financial assistance to qualifying families and can be a wonderful resource for support.
When would you use a back-up?
When you choose me as your doula, I deeply honor that trust and take my role very seriously. I am committed to doing everything within my power to be there to support you. With that said, life sometimes gets in the way of making that happen. In situations such as severe illness, attending another birth, previously discussed periods of unavailability, transportation challenges (e.g., traffic, poor weather conditions, or car trouble), or if I have been continuously supporting you for 24 hours or more, I may need to call in my trusted backup doula to ensure you receive uninterrupted care and support.
What happens if I have a C-section?
In the event of a cesarean birth, whether planned or emergent, my role will be guided by your needs and your hospital’s policies. Most hospitals allow only one person in the operating room, though some may permit two. This is an important factor to consider when deciding if you would like me by your side during. Whatever you choose, I am here to support you—whether that means accompanying you into the operating room or waiting nearby in the delivery room, ready to provide emotional and physical support once the surgical team has completed their work.