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Information about current classes and services, plus
news articles and studies on pregnancy, birth, postpartum, breast-feeding,
and parenting.
Frequently Asked Questions
I hope you'll find the answers to your questions on this FAQ. If not, please feel free to email or call and I will get back to you as soon as I can.
Doula FAQ
What about Dad? Am I going to feel left out if we hire a doula?
Doulas and dads work just fine together. Usually, there is plenty to do during labor! Your doula can run errands (like getting ice chips or a snack for Dad) while dad stays with mom during labor, or she can stay with the laboring mama while Dad gets a short break. In many labors, mama benefits from having two people providing hands-on comfort measures. Also, having a doula is like being able to bring your childbirth class to labor with you! The doula's presence often takes pressure off of mom's partner to remember what to do to help her. My goal when working with dads (or other friends/family that mom has chosen) is to help him be involved to whatever degree he wants to be, to help him feel calmer during the labor and birth, and to help him experience his child's birth and his transformation into fatherhood to the fullest.Can you tell us about your routine of what you do during labor?
I have no routine! Every mother is different, every labor is different, every partner is different. During your prenatal appointments, we will talk about the many different techniques I may offer during labor, to familiarize you with them and for me to discover which you feel most positive about. Then, we will take labor as it comes and use techniques according to your needs. I will join you in labor when you are ready for support, and I will stay with you through the immediate postpartum routines and starting breastfeeding.
I think I want an epidural. Is it still helpful to have you as my doula?
Absolutely. Most births involve quite a bit of time before an epidural can be administered, so I can help you get to that point. Also, unfortunately, sometimes an epidural doesn't provide pain relief, or provides only partial relief, and sometimes it may cause unpleasant side effects; should that occur, I will help you cope with residual pain or side effects. After the birth, I stay by your side and support you through immediate postpartum routines and breastfeeding. I have no agenda for whether you use any sort of drugs during your labor or not. We will discuss your desires at your prenatal meetings, I will provide information to help you make your own decisions, and I will do my best to help you avoid OR get drugs, according to your own preferences.What are your fees?
Fees vary based on your plans for birth. Please see my doula services page and look through the various contracts to see my fees, or contact me.What is your training and certification?
I am trained and certified as a birth doula through DONA International.Lamaze Education FAQ
How long are your classes?
The course design is for 12 hours, either spread over 6 weeks or 4 weeks. Occasionally I may be able to run a course that runs for 6 weeks, with 2.5 hour classes - this extra time will help me personalize the class, deepen our skills practice, and allow time for budding relationships with other soon-to-be parents. Although Lamaze is meant for group classes, I can also teach privately if you are on bedrest or have other specific needs.What are your credentials?
I have been trained through Lamaze International, and am working through meeting the requirements for certification. I intend to be certified by the end of 2008.
What are the class fees?
Fees vary by location and class type. Please contact me.Additional services FAQ's
Are you a professional photographer? What do you include in your photography packages?
I love taking pictures and have been told I have a knack for it, but I am not a professional. I am offering photography services to my doula clients and Lamaze class members who would like to have their pregnancy documented or their newborn photographed, and who are more comfortable with a familiar face or a lower price. I have no set packages; we will discuss your wishes and I will give you a quote. You can ask to see some of my pictures at a class or prenatal meeting.Cloth diapering? Does that still exist?
Yep, it does, and boy has it changed! The rectangular diapers, pins, and pull-up pants of our parents' generation are still around, but they are only the tip of the iceberg! Diapers that go on like a disposable - with velcro or snaps - are here! But while cloth diapering has gotten a lot easier, the decisions are not simple! Many options are out there. I can provide information to help you decide whether to use cloth, what kind of cloth diapers you would like to use, and teach you how to use and launder them. Cloth diapers can help you save money, reduce or prevent diaper rash, and reduce deforestation and landfill use, so they are worth considering. Check out the links page for some of the diapering sites that I frequented for my own children.What's babywearing? Why should I consider it and how can you help?
Babywearing is the use of a baby carrier to keep your baby against your body as you go about your daily life. Babywearing includes the use of soft carriers, slings, pouches, mei tais, and wraps. Babywearing is convenient and comfortable, and keeps your baby soothed and entertained by being close to you and able to see the action around you. It's also fashionable! I can guide you through the information about different types of carriers, so that you can choose one that is best for you, and teach you how to use your carrier(s) comfortably. Check out the links page for some of my favorite babywearing sites.