A doula's role has no simple definition, but she is meant to fill in the missing pieces of your puzzle. Prenatally, we will meet in your home two or three times to get to know one another, and to review your goals and questions surrounding the birth. My job prentally is to help you understand your options and to help you make your own informed decisions. Our range of discussion will vary depending on your preferences, but I am there to be an informational suport, as well as to educate your other support people on comfort measures used in labour, and about emotional coaching for the labour and delivery. When the phone rings at 3am, I am there to answer and help your family asess where things are at. When in true labour, I can meet you in your home if that is your preference, or at the hospital, if that is where you will be birthing. I am a continuous support for you, whether it be in grabbing water, suggesting position changes, pouring you a bath, giving massages or helping your other supports know the right thing to do. I will stay with your family for up to afew hours after the birth, and things feel comfortable. After the birth, I am available to you for two or three home visits, phone calls or emails for up to six weeks postpartum, to help you transition into your new normal. I look forward to joining you on this crazy journey, and can't believe I get to call this job mine.
