Frequently Asked Questions
What is a birth doula?
A doula is a trained professional who provides physical, emotional, and informational support to pregnant women and their support person(s) before, during, and after birth. A doula is not a medical provider, but can help equip parents with well-rounded information to make the most informed choices for pregnancy and birth.
What birth locations do you serve?
I am happy to support ANY birth in ANY birth setting! Whether you choose to birth in a hospital, birth center, at home or free birth, we can work together to get you the support you need! I serve a 75 miles radius from Sheridan, IN and am happy to go further but will require an additional fee for travel expenses. Feel free to message me to see if I serve your area!
How would you support me, as a doula, during labor?
As your doula, I provide continuous, in-person support during your labor. This can look like physical and emotional support for you as well as supporting your chosen support person (often your husband, but could be a mom, sister, friend, etc.) in ways they can help you as well. I am there to 100% serve you in your needs, however that may look. Whether its performing counter pressure for hours on end, sitting back and knowing when to give you some space or advocating for your birth preferences, I am there to help make your birth experience go smoothly and take the stress off of you so you can focus on meeting you precious baby.
Do I need a doula if I already have a midwife?
Yes! A doula and a midwife play different roles on your birth team. While many midwives are willing to offer some support and guidance during birth, they also have many other tasks they need to attend to as your midwife and medical provider that leaves them unable to be by your side whenever you may need them. Your midwife will also be able to provide clinical skills such as assessments and taking vitals signs. A doula will meet with you several times prior to your birth to make birth plans and then their main job during your birth is to 100% support you.
How does having a doula benefit the birthing experience?
Studies have shown that having a doula present during labor can lead to shorter labors, reduced need for pain medication, lower rates of medical interventions, and higher satisfaction with the birth experience overall.
When should I hire a doula?
It's best to hire a doula early in your pregnancy to ensure you have time to build a relationship and discuss your birth preferences. However, I am open to taking on clients later in their pregnancy as well!
Contact
I serve a 75 mile radius from Sheridan, IN. I attend ANY birth (hospital, birth center, home birth and free birth). Contact me to see if I serve your location in Indiana!
Locations served: Indianapolis, Carmel, Fishers, Noblesville, Westfield, Hamilton county, Sheridan, Zionsville, Avon, Anderson, Lafayette, Lebanon, Boone County, Tipton, Kokomo, Clinton County, Howard county, Tippecanoe county, Hendricks County, Madison county, Carrol County, Logansport, Cass county AND MORE!