Doula Services
Initial Consultation: 
Your initial consultation is free as there is no obligation to utilize services.  During this meeting, I will be able to assist you in understanding the services and options available, encourage you to ask questions and help you to prepare a preliminary birth plan. If desired, we can also discuss the benefits of Massage Therapy during pregnancy and arrange massage appointments.  This meeting may occur at any time between conception and birth.  The sooner we begin to work together the better but it is never too late to consider doula support.  Once you have decided to use the available doula services you will be required to complete and provide the following:
-a service contract
-a retainer of half the total fees
-a post-dated cheque for the remainder of fees (to be cashed after the birth).
For information on the current fees please inquire by phone or email.

Prenatal Visit:
We will meet 1-2 times in your home to review your birth plan, answer questions and discuss comfort measures.  I will provide you with an information package to help you gather information and clarify your birth choices.  You are encouraged to share your birth plan with your primary caregiver and ensure that s/he is in agreement.  These pre-natal visits also provide an opportunity to meet with your back-up Doula if you wish.  In addition, I will also be available throughout your pregnancy for informational support over the phone.

Labour & Birth Support:   

As your Doula, I am available to you 24hours/day from 38 weeks onward.  You are asked to call me as soon as you think your labour has begun.  This gives me an opportunity to make arrangements to be as available as possible for you.  When your labour progresses to the point where you think you would like some additional support, you call me again.  I will meet you at your home or at the hospital depending upon your wishes and the stage of labour you are in when you request my assistance.  I will provide continuous uninterrupted support during labour and birth (except in exceptional circumstances, for example a very long labour, or an emergency family situation).  Following the birth of your baby I will remain with you at the hospital for 1-2 hours and assist you with breastfeeding if you wish.  Throughout your labour, birth and afterwards I can also take photographs and video as time permits but my main focus will be providing emotional and physical support.  

Postpartum Home Visit:  

A postpartum visit is included, (you may contract for more if you wish).  Once you are comfortable at home, I will visit you and your baby, share photographs, review the birth and answer questions.  I will provide you with a personal birth story summarizing the events of your baby’s birth.  I can teach you Infant Massage at this time, free of charge.  If you need assistance with breastfeeding or have any questions I would be happy to help you.  Parenting an infant is so rewarding but it can also be challenging.  I want parents to know that they are not alone. You are encouraged to call me at any time before or after this visit if you have any questions or concerns.  I can also connect you with resources for more in depth concerns (i.e.: postpartum depression, complementary health care, physiotherapy, massage therapy, and certified lactation consultants).