dou·la
ancient Greek word meaning women that serve women; in modern times referring to education, physical, and emotional support during pregnancy, birth and postpartum
doula support overview
my hope
to provide non-judgmental physical and emotional support for each family on the path of bringing forth new life. to learn from each woman, hold space for the surrender to her birth and postpartum experience, and witness her transcend who she has been up to this point. open space for feeling grounded, nourished, empowered and connected - as a platform to raise children who are thriving, strong, and the highest expression of themselves.
what does full support look like?
01
preparation: birth and postpartum planning
prenatal meeting #1:
after receiving a library of online resources, step into creating birth intentions. learn about the many different options you have giving birth at home or in the hospital, comfort measures in labor. evidence-based information and resources provided to improve birth outcomes for mom and baby, supporting you in finding the right provider and being your own best advocate.
prenatal meeting #2:
reflect and share how you envision this right of passage and what your unique family needs to thrive. we will work through fears and cultural conditioning around birth and motherhood. get to know the stages of labor, hormones, and how to honor the physiological process of birth. we will discuss all things birth and postpartum from labor to breastfeeding to sleep rhythms and bodywork.
02
action: enter laborland
with your intention and preparation established, along with the support of a trusted guide (your doula), you are able to fully let go and surrender to your birth experience. partners and doulas come together to support what the birthing person needs most - the confidence to let go in a safe and nurturing space, full trust in her instincts, and the physical/emotional support to confidently manage any arising sensation.
03
follow through: immediate postpartum
you are encouraged to build the nest with optimal support, nourishment, and care from the moment baby arrives. postpartum can be a time for profound healing and rejuvenation with the support of your village. as your doula i remain with you, available to pick up meals, coordinate with family and friends, establish a meal train, offer newborn care advice and other local/virtual resources that would benefit.
04
integration: mothering the mother
this takes place after birth within the first 16 weeks of the baby's life - also known as the fourth trimester. i can offer support however it is needed at the time. this may include postpartum healing, getting adequate sleep, navigating breastfeeding challenges, and processing your birth story. i am currently deepening my study and practice of Ayurveda (the Indian life science), honoring the sacred window with a strong focus on conscious caregiving, preparing the right nourishing foods, and therapeutic touch.
a note about payment:
-
currently accepting Zelle, Venmo, Cash or Check
-
happy to work with families on flexible payment plans (just ask!)
-
qualified for Carrot reimbursement (sometimes provided by employers)
birth and postpartum
doula scholarships
are you seeking doula support but don't have the means to invest? as a proud board member of Cape Fear Area Doulas, we are passionate about serving our community regardless of the ability to pay. we raise funds to offer full birth and postpartum support scholarships. any local pregnant person is eligible to apply, scholarships are primarily given to low-income families, single parents, and people facing birthing and/or postpartum hardships.
