What Does A Doula Do?

What Does A Doula Do?

Prenatally:

As a doula, I will meet with you twice before the birth to discuss your needs and priorities, explore any fears or concerns, and to plan how we might best work together. One of these visits will take place at one of your regular doctor's appointments so that your doctor and I have a chance to meet and so that we all have an opportunity to discuss our collective expectations for the birth. If you need to meet more we can always arrange extra meetings, this extra meetings costs 200TL each. I am "on-call" for two weeks before and two weeks after your estimated due date.  If there are dates during the on-call period I am not available to attend your birth we will discuss this during our initial meeting and I will introduce you to your back-up doula. I am also available by phone or email to discuss any questions or concerns you may have before the birth.

During Labor:

During labor, I provide continuous physical, emotional, and informational support to the birthing mother and partner. This may include, but is not limited to, massage, suggesting a change of position, breathing techniques, and explanations of procedures and medications offered by the hospital staff. As you and your partner are in effect being birthed into the new role of parents, I ultimately respect the process you are going through together and work to the best of my ability to support you both.

I prefer that you call me when you think you are in labor, even if you do not yet need me. I can answer questions and make suggestions over the phone. We will decide if I should come right then or wait for further change. I usually need approximately one hour to get to you from the time you ask me to come. We will also decide where to meet—at your home or the hospital. Except for extraordinary circumstances, I will remain with you throughout labor and birth.

After Birth:

I usually remain with you for one to two hours after birth, until you are comfortable and your family is ready for quiet time together. I will visit 1-2 times after birth either still in the hospital or at your home or both.  Further visits can be arranged if necessary as an extra meeting.

I am available by phone to answer questions about the birth or your baby.