FAQs

 

Do you only support non-medicated births?

Nope! I support births of all kinds; hospital, home, birth center, medicated, non-medicated, cesarean sections. I support YOU in whatever way you choose to bring your baby into the world.

As a Doula, do you replace my partner?

Not at all! Your partner is your number one supporter. I love working with partners to get them involved- helping them know what to do, keeping them engaged and informed about the process. Your partner and I work as a team to support you and keep you feeling comfortable and safe.

How will you involve and support my partner during labor?

I love working with partners! I like to give them tools to use during labor so that they feel confident guiding and supporting you. It’s a team effort and also one of the biggest moments in their lives (as well as the birthing person). I want to make it memorable for everyone involved! I also like connecting with the partner to make sure they feel heard and supported.

In what cases would you not be able to attend my birth?

I would not be able to attend your birth only for a couple rare situations. If I am ill, if there is a death or family emergency, because of horrible weather, or if I am attending another birth. That being said, I always work with a back up and would love for you to meet her before your due date in the case that she is called to your birth.

Is a doula the same thing as a midwife?

No, while we have similar philosophies and views about the human body and the birth process, we have different roles. A midwife has a medical degree and keeps mom and baby safe. A doula is a non-medical professional who focuses on physical and emotional support.

What certifications, trainings, and experiences do you have?

I am trained through Birth Arts International, and I have experiences with unmedicated births, medicated births, inductions, belly births, high risk, VBAC, and rainbow babies (births after loss).

How do you make sure you are using the most current, evidence-based practices?

I love staying in the loop as far as current research, read a lot, and get most of my information from Evidence Based Birth.

How do you handle the unexpected during birth?

Breathing, intuition, and really focusing in on how my client feels with the unexpected changes. I like to go with the flow, because birth can sometimes bring the unexpected.

How will you interact with the medical team at my birth?

My goal is to make sure that everyone is on the same page-echoing your birth preferences and wishes. Kindness, cordial collaboration, and bringing humor to the room go far in ensuring we work together as a team.

What do you keep in your doula toolbag?

My Rebozo (traditional Mexican scarf), essential oils and cotton pads, extra bags for soiled clothing, journal, Labor Progress Handbook, lavender eye mask, flameless candles, cooling cloths for forehead or back of neck, clipboard with my certification, your intake form, and birth preferences!

What is your style of support?

Gentle and nurturing–holding space and letting you do your thing, but also a warm presence available to offer guidance and suggestions.

In your opinion, what makes you a great doula?

My ability to adapt, my intuition, and grounded presence.

Are there any interventions that you do not support? (ie: epidural, induction, circumcision)

I do not support circumcision (non-consensual genital mutilation, which provides no medical benefit). As far as interventions and pain management, I support anything my clients want or desire at any point in their labor.

How do you adapt to your client’s emotions and needs during labor?

Reading body language, and making sure I am present.

What is your service area?

Nederland, Black Hawk, Evergreen, Conifer, Morrison, Central City, Idaho Springs, Golden, Boulder, Denver, Longmont, Lafayette, Louisville, Fort Collins, Lakewood, Westminster, Thornton, and Lyons, Colorado.