1. What is a doula? A doula provides non-medical physical, emotional, informational, and advocacy support throughout pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. I support your decisions and help you feel informed and heard—I do not replace your medical team.
2. Do I need a doula if I already have a partner or support person? Absolutely! I don't replace your support person—I help support them, too. We work together so you have a stronger, more confident support team.
3. Do you only support unmedicated or vaginal births? No. Epidural, induction, cesarean, VBAC, medicated or unmedicated—there is no “right” birth you have to achieve for me. Your birth. Your choices. Your support.
4. Will you speak to my medical team for me? I advocate with you, not over you. I can help you ask questions, understand your options, communicate your preferences, and use your voice. Medical decisions remain between you and your healthcare team.
5. When do you go on call for my birth? Birth clients enter the on-call period at 37 weeks. During our prenatal visits, we'll discuss exactly when and how to contact me when you believe labor may be beginning.
6. Can you guarantee the birth experience I want? No one can guarantee a specific birth outcome. What I can promise is compassionate support, preparation, information within my scope, respect for your choices, and a steady presence as your journey unfolds.
7. What happens if you can't attend my birth? When necessary and available, a qualified backup doula may step in according to your service agreement so your family can maintain continuity of support.
8. Do you offer payment plans or sliding-scale services? Yes. Payment plans allow families to divide the regular service cost into manageable payments. A limited number of sliding-scale spaces are available for qualifying families experiencing financial barriers.
9. What if I'm having trouble making a payment? Please communicate with me in writing as early as possible. I'd rather have a conversation before a payment becomes overdue so we can review your agreement and determine what options may be available.
10. Will you share my pictures or birth story online? Not without appropriate permission. Your privacy matters, and optional photo/media consent is separate from receiving doula care.
11. What if I change my mind about something during labor? That's okay. Birth preferences are not rules you're trapped by. You can ask questions, reconsider your options, and communicate new preferences as circumstances change.
12. What if I have a question that isn't listed here? Ask it. 💜 No question is too small, awkward, or “obvious” when it matters to you.
