Services

Labor Support Package

The Birthing Well's labor support package includes the following services:

Initial interview
The choice you make regarding who will be present at the birth of your child is an important one. I believe there is a right doula for every couple. Personalities, beliefs, priorities, experiences and values all come together in the labor room, so finding someone who respects who you are is important.
In the initial interview, I will meet with you to answer your questions -- about my background, experience, methods, and knowledge -- to allow you to decide if I am the right doula for you. I offer this hour long meeting free of charge, without any obligation from you.
During that time, I will work hard to show you how I may be the right match, but, if it turns out that I am not the right doula for you, I believe so strongly in the value of a doula that I will provide referrals to help you find the one that is right for you.
Prenatal visits
After you have chosen me as your doula, I will meet with you and your partner at least twice before labor to become acquainted and to understand your desires for labor and birth. In this meeting, we will discuss the details of your birth plan, our strategies for achieving your goals, and any concerns you may have. I will also introduce you to some pain-coping techniques for you to practice as well as some massage techniques that I may use during labor. I am also available to attend one of your prenatal checkups with your care provider.
Telephone and email support throughout pregnancy
Throughout our professional relationship, you can feel free to call or email me with any questions or concerns you may have. I will provide you the information and resources necessary for you to make informed, empowered decisions. I can provide explanations and information on alternatives, and I can refer you to reliable resources of thorough, balanced information. Pregnancy can be an emotional time, and simply having an empathetic ear to talk to can be helpful.
Labor support in your home, hospital and/or birthing center
When you go into labor, I will meet you at your home, the hospital or the birthing center, according to your wishes. I will remain with you until after the birth of your child, whenever you deem it appropriate for me to leave. During labor, I will provide physical comfort measures, labor position suggestions and pain coping techniques. These include the use of hot and cold compresses, massage, visual imagery, breathing techniques, and verbal coaching. During labor, I will strive to effect good communication between you and your care provider, facilitate the achievement of your birth wishes, and ensure that you have both the time and information necessary to make decisions you can be comfortable with.
The use of a TENS unit during labor
I offer the use of a TENS unit during labor. I have been trained in its use and have been approved to offer this service by DONA, the organization through which I am certified as a doula.  
TENS therapy can be an effective part of a group of non-pharmaceutical strategies to relieve pain in labor.  For more information, see my TENS FAQ.
Initial lactation support
I can help your baby latch on the first time shortly after birth. I can make suggestions for positioning your baby for a good latch and show you what to look for as signs of an effective latch and suck.
Photographs
Taking photographs can be an easily forgotten "chore" during the emotional heights of labor and birth. If you wish, I can take pictures of your labor and birth, using my camera. All photos will be taken honoring any guidelines you will have given me prior to labor. They will be your property after the birth, and will be delivered to you on disk at the postpartum visit.
A postpartum visit
Shortly after the birth of your child, I will visit your new family. At that time, I will deliver your birth story and photos, and answer any questions you may have.
Comprehensive educational materials
The wealth of information available to pregnant women and their partners is sometimes overwhelming. Often, excellent "gems" of information are buried beneath pages and pages of less-worthy text. Throughout my training and education, I have collected an excellent library of information that can be easily read in a short period of time. This well-organized folder of educational materials pertaining to labor and birth will be lent to you during your pregnancy.
Access to a lending library
I also have a well-chosen library of labor and birth books to lend to you. I have read every book in my library, and will lend any one out with confidence that it is an excellent source of information, inspiration, or both.
Referral network to private childbirth educators, postpartum doulas and lacation consultants
I have an extensive network of private childbirth educators, postpartum doulas and laction consultants with whom I've worked and am able to heartily recommend. I will be pleased to provide referrals to you for any issue that arises that is not covered by my services.