Questions frequently asked of a Doula and responses.
What training and experience with birth do you have? Are you a certified doula?
I am currently working on becoming a Certified Doula. I have completed the readings, the seminar training, childbirth and breastfeeding classes and the packet portions of the certification as required by the DONA, International organization. What is remaining is my one-on-one experience with laboring mothers. To date (2/16/2012) I have attended to three women in labor and currently have an active client who will be birthing sometime in the next few weeks. To complete my certification, the women I am currently aiding will complete an evaluation of my services. I am on track to be certified by the spring of 2012.
Do you usually meet with clients prior to labor? If so, where and how often? Is the labor partner usually present?
As with most Doulas who are privately hired, I would recommend meeting with you two to three times prior to your labor. The reason I recommend this is to learn about your expectations, concerns, desires, and past experiences; all of which will contribute to your birth experience. I also feel that these meetings will allow us time to go over different pain and relaxation techniques and to learn which ones you think you would prefer. It would be most helpful for your labor partner to be present but it is not absolutely necessary. Meetings usually take place at your home or if that is unavailable, at a neutral locations both of us are comfortable with.
What is your philosophy about supporting mothers and fathers during labor?
My philosophy is one of flexibility. I realize that people have different preferences and expectations going into their labor. This is why the way I would go about supporting the mother and father or partner of the mother is dependent upon what they request; whether that means fully involved and hands on, or more of a support whose words and/or presence is all that is needed.
What kinds of comfort measures do you use most often for relaxation and pain relief? Are you open to other suggestions?
I am always open to ideas that the mother, father or partner has; after all this is their birth experience. Most comfort techniques include some form of breathing pattern, positional changes, movement, visualizations or manual pain relief through massage, stroking, or as simple as a touch. It is always ultimately up to the mother what feels best or what route she wants to take - including the option of medication as a pain reliever.
What kind of help do you offer husbands or partners?
Most often the kind of help a partner or husband needs is the verbal kind. Reassurance that they are doing great, suggestions if they are looking for advice or help, encouragement if they are experiencing any number of negative feelings and support during decision making moments. I also pay attention to whether or not the partner has eaten, rested, gone to the bathroom, etc. I'm also willing to take on some of the responsibilities usually shouldered by a birth partner such as phone calling or taking pictures.
Will you help clients prepare their birth plan?
Absolutely. While a birth plan is sometimes "thrown out the window" so to speak; it is a great way to prepare oneself for labor and delivery. Often times the act of preparing a birth plan brings up questions regarding labor and delivery and early decisions surrounding the newborn baby the mother and father and/or partner had never thought of. It is always a good idea to know what your opinions are, even if an ideal situation cannot occur, knowing can sometimes help to avoid going to an opposite extreme.
Are you willing to help clients communicate with hospital and other medical personnel?
Yes and no. While I am familiar with medical terminology, situations, and options that may or may not have been presented, I am not medically trained and cannot therefore speak against any medical advice given by medical personnel. I am willing to discuss options and help the mother and her support person ask the questions they really want answered. My goal is not to persuade them in either direction but to help them obtain factual, evidence-based information and make sure they have all of the options placed before them so they can make the decision that best suites their preferences. I will always be able to communicate the wishes and desires of the mother and her partner to the medical staff if that is specifically requested of me.
What is your experience and skill in teaching breast-feeding techniques?
I am a large supporter and advocate for women who choose to breast-feed their newborns. I understand and have experienced the difficulties associated with learning to nurse and teaching your newborn to latch correctly and am able to offer advice. I am not however a lactation specialist but can help the mother get into contact with one. I am also a member of the local La Leche League and am happy to attend a meeting with an expectant mom or a new mom to help get questions or concerns answered.
What hospitals do you work with?
I am and will always be working towards establishing positive relationships with the labor and delivery staff at all of the local medical facilities as well as the only birthing center in the Chippewa Valley, Morning Star Birth Center. These facilities include: Luther Midlefort Hospital and Sacred Heart Hospital of Eau Claire, Saint Joseph's Hospital in Chippewa Falls and Red Cedar Medical Center of Menomonie.
When do we get in contact with you? Right away in labor? Or once significant progress has been made?
This is more based on the your preferences. I will be happy to join in and provide my support and services whenever the laboring woman and her partner decides they want me to be there. During our initial meetings we can discuss such decisions and scenarios in which I would be requested right away and those in which I wouldn't. Based on the woman's expected due date, my schedule would be organized in such a way that she would not need to worry about me being needed at another labor; I would be able to stay from when the mother wants me there through the delivery and early moments of postpartum.
Do you have a back-up Doula in case you are ill or out of town?
I have a list of other support providers. This would be something for me to review with the mother during a meeting prior to labor.
What are your fees?
My current fee is a flat rate of $400. This is to cover my travel costs and supplies. My services include a minimum of two pre-labor meetings with the expectant mother and her husband or partner; support throughout the pregnancy by phone and e-mail; aiding with developing a birth plan; continuous advocacy and support of the mother and her partner during labor and birth; immediate postpartum aid if necessary; help with establishing breastfeeding and basic breastfeeding advice; a one-week postpartum home-check to review the birth experience and answer any questions.