FAQ.

What is your philosophy about birth and supporting women and their partners in labor?​

My philosophy revolves around honoring the profound journey of childbirth as a deeply personal and transformative experience for both women and their partners. As a birth doula, I believe in providing unwavering emotional, physical, and informational support tailored to each individual's unique needs and desires throughout the entire birthing process. I advocate for informed choice, empowering individuals to make decisions that align with their values and preferences while fostering a nurturing environment that promotes confidence, trust, and autonomy. My role is to be a steady presence, offering compassionate guidance, comfort measures, and advocacy, ensuring that birthing individuals and their partners feel empowered, respected, and supported as they navigate this sacred transition into parenthood.
 

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Are you a Certified Doula?​

I am a Certified Birth Doula through Childbirth International (CBI) and Doulas of North America (DONA) and hold the title of Certified Doula through the Ohio Board of Nursing. I hold certifications for Pregnancy and Infancy Loss through PAIL Advocates and the StillBirthDay Association. I am a trained Patient Care Advocate, End of Life Doula, and vigil sitter for Hospice of Cincinnati. I have a BA in Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies, and a mother to a beautiful 10-year-old.

 

Do you have a backup Doula in case you are not available? ​

As birth is highly unpredictable, having a backup doula is essential. I try to average no more than one birth per week, to increase my chances of attending all my clients' births. If there is a chance that births may overlap, or that I may be out of town (this is always scheduled in advance, and you would always know about it upon hiring me for my services), I have several backup doulas I work with.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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When can we expect you to be on-call for my labor?​

My on-call time for you starts at your 38-week mark. I remain on-call until one week postpartum in the case of a medical emergency. I will be accessible 24/7, responsive, and prepared to attend your labor and delivery. I will work with you to address any urgent issues or emergencies that may arise within this designated timeframe.
 

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Will we meet in person to talk about my birth?​

Absolutely! Two prenatal appointments are included in the Base Birth Doula Package.

• Appointment 1: We discuss your birth preferences and create a comprehensive plan (PDF) for you to share with your care provider. I will email you a survey before our appointment to assess your preferences. We will design your birth plan together using this information and the supplemental information I bring.

• Appointment 2: We discuss what to expect in early labor and techniques for laboring at home. We also talk about what our communication looks like during this early labor time. We will create a list of questions for your care provider appointments based on your pregnancy needs.

 

May we call you with questions before and after birth?​

Open communication is key in my work as a doula. The better I get to know you, the more likely I will be able to meet your needs. I am available to talk, email, and text throughout your pregnancy. Before I go on call for you and after, I will answer those as soon as possible. Please feel free to reach out to me anytime. Once I am on-call, you and your questions and concerns become my priority, and I answer most of the time, immediately.

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When do you try to join clients in labor? Do you plan on joining us at our home or the hospital?

As a birth doula, my primary aim is to support you wherever you feel most comfortable bringing your child into the world. Whether it's at home or in a hospital setting, I'm dedicated to joining you when you feel the timing is right. Typically, I'll arrive when you're in active labor, but I'm also available for earlier support if needed. Your preferences and comfort are paramount, and I'll be there to provide guidance, encouragement, and assistance every step of the way, ensuring your birthing experience is as positive and empowering as possible.

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Which labor coping techniques do you find to be most useful?

As a birth doula, I've found that a combination of position changes and movement, relaxation techniques, and continuous emotional support and encouragement are invaluable during labor. Position changes and movement can help facilitate progress and ease discomfort by allowing the birthing person to find positions that feel most comfortable and effective for them. Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, visualization, and massage provide a sense of calm and control amidst the intensity of contractions. Equally crucial is the unwavering emotional support and encouragement I provide, reminding the birthing person of their strength, resilience, and the imminent joy of meeting their baby. Together, these strategies create a supportive environment conducive to a positive birth experience.

 

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How would you work with and involve my partner?

Collaboration and inclusion are at the heart of my approach when working with partners. I understand the significance of their role in the birth journey and aim to support them every step of the way. By actively listening to their preferences, fears, and desires, I ensure their involvement is meaningful and respected. Together, we'll explore comfort measures, communication strategies, and ways to foster a supportive environment during labor and delivery. My goal is to complement and enhance the bond between partners, empowering them to navigate this transformative experience together with confidence and unity.

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How do you feel about the use of pain medication in labor?

As a birth doula, I believe the use of pain medication in labor should be a decision made by the birthing person, informed by their unique needs, preferences, and medical circumstances. I advocate for natural pain management techniques and empowering birthing experiences which includes individuals who choose pharmacological pain relief options. Every labor is different, and what matters most is ensuring the birthing person feels supported, respected, and empowered to make the choices that are best for them and their baby.

 

Do you have anyone else due around the time I am due?

I schedule between 2-3 clients per month. That is on average, no more than 1 client per week. The nature of birth sometimes has a different plan, sometimes babies come early, and sometimes they come late. This is the reason why having a backup doula is essential.

 

Can I talk to a few of your recent clients?

Of course! I can connect you with some recent clients who have graciously offered to share their experiences with you. Hearing directly from them can provide valuable insights into the support I offer and the impact I strive to make during the birthing process.

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And please visit the Testimonial Page to read the reflections of clients I have previously supported.