Prenatal
If possible, I will meet with you and your partner at least twice
during your third trimester. Together, we will formulate a
list of birth preferences and a newborn care plan which can be
given to your providers. I will also give you a packet of
information on pain management during labor, positions during
labor, breastfeeding, possible interventions during labor, and
self-hypnosis/visualization. I can suggest various resources
(e.g., websites, publications, books) which may be valuable to you
in the final weeks of your pregnancy. I will answer any
questions you may have and give you reliable methods of contacting
me. I will also give you the names of one or more reliable
backup Doulas which you may want to contact in the event I am
unable to be with you during labor. Once we meet initially,
I will be available to you 24 hours a day to answer any questions
or concerns you have.
Sometimes it is not possible for a Doula to meet with prospective
parents. Please be assured that the benefits of having a
doula with you during labor are not affected adversely if we are
unable to meet.
During Labor and Delivery
I ask that you call me when you think you are in labor
even if you do not need me yet. I can answer questions and
make suggestions by phone. We will decide if I should come
to your home right then or wait until you've progressed a little
further. Please note that I will need approximately one hour
to arrive from the time you call me. We will also decide
where to meet, either at your home or the hospital/birthing
center.
Once I arrive, I will stay by your side uninterrupted throughout
your entire labor and delivery. I will use my knowledge and
experience to provide emotional support, physical comfort, pain
management, and assistance in getting you the information you need
to make informed decisions about your care. I will also work
closely with your partner so that he/she can participate fully and
at his or her own comfort level without the pressure of "doing it
right". I will also act as a liaison and facilitate
communication between you, your partner and your providers if
appropriate or necessary.
Immediately After the Birth
I will remain by your side until the placenta is
delivered and your new family is ready for quiet time together.
I can also help with the initial breastfeeding if desired.
This usually takes between one and two hours after the baby is
born.
In the Weeks Following the Birth
I will be available to you for several weeks following
the baby's birth to answer questions about the birth, about your
new baby, or about your role as a new mother. I would like
to meet with you about a week after the birth to see how you, your
partner and the baby are doing, to share your birth story, to get
feedback from you about my role, and to make sure that you have
the information you need in the event you wish to retain the
services of a Post-partum Doula or other professionals.
Sacred Birth Doula Care
13 Ridge Road
New
Paltz, NY 12561
(845) 430-1430
e-mail: soprano@hvc.rr.com
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