Frequently Asked Questions

General FAQs

Who do you serve?

I support all birthing people and families including queer, trans, BIPOC, single parents, blended families, surrogates, chosen family structures, and anyone navigating pregnancy, birth, or postpartum. My care is rooted in respect, curiosity, and a commitment to continuously expanding my understanding of different identities, experiences, and cultural needs. I’m always learning, unlearning, and updating my approach to show up with as much competence and humility as possible. And if there’s ever a situation where someone from a specific community would be better served by someone with a deeper lived experience or specialized training, I’ll help connect you with the right person.

How many clients do you take on?

I currently take about 6 birth clients per year so I can provide truly present, consistent care. This keeps my on-call time manageable with my own family and ensures my availability for your birth or postpartum needs.

Are you certified or trained?

I completed formal doula training through DONA, but I’ve intentionally let my certification lapse. I don’t believe that support work should be gatekept through expensive renewals or rigid organizations, especially when doula care is rooted in community, tradition, and lived experience. I honor the preservation of this work by continuing education on my own terms, staying deeply engaged with evidence-based practices, and showing up with skill, integrity, and heart.

How do your payment options work?

A deposit secures your spot and the remainder is due by 38 weeks unless otherwise arranged. I believe support should be accessible and I’m happy to create a payment plan or discuss financial options. If money feels like a barrier, we’ll explore a solution together.

What’s your cancellation or refund policy?

Generally, deposits are non-refundable because they reserve your on-call time. However, I understand life happens, and I handle each situation with compassion and transparency.

Do you offer virtual support?

Yes, for families who want guidance but don’t need in-person care. Virtual sessions can include birth prep, postpartum planning, and emotional check-ins.

Birth Doula FAQs

Why hire a doula?

A doula offers continuous emotional, physical, and informational support throughout pregnancy, labor, and the early postpartum period. This is something your medical team can’t always provide because they’re focused on clinical care.

Evidence backs this up: continuous support from a trained doula is associated with shorter labors, lower rates of interventions (like epidurals, Pitocin, and cesareans), higher satisfaction with the birth experience, and better outcomes for both birther and baby. Studies also show people with doulas feel more confident, more informed, and better able to advocate for themselves. Evidence on doulas

What’s the difference between a doula and a midwife?

A doula provides emotional, physical, and informational support, while a midwife provides clinical care. I don’t perform medical tasks. I support your comfort, confidence, and decision-making. We work beautifully alongside each other to create a safe, supported birth experience.

When should we hire a doula?

Most families hire a doula anytime between the first trimester and 30–32 weeks. Hiring earlier gives us more time to build a relationship and prepare together. That said, if you’re farther along, I can still support you.

Do you support all types of births?

Yes. Hospital, home, induction, epidural, unmedicated, VBAC, cesarean, and beyond. My job is to support your choices and help you feel grounded and informed throughout.

How do you handle overlapping births or due dates?

I take a limited number of clients per month to reduce overlap. If an emergency prevents me from attending your birth, a trusted backup doula will be available. You’ll meet them beforehand so everything feels seamless.

How do doulas support partners?

A doula doesn’t replace your partner; we help them feel more confident and involved. I offer guidance, reassurance, and simple tools so they know exactly how to support you. Partners can take breaks, ask questions, and stay grounded without feeling like they have to manage everything alone. With a doula on the team, everyone gets to feel present and more connected.

Will you take photos during the birth?

Yes, if you want. I can take simple, candid photos on your device when the moment allows. My priority is supporting you, but I’m always happy to capture meaningful moments. If you are seeking professional birth photos, see my resources page!

Do you need a doula if you’re having a cesarean birth?

Yes! Doulas support planned and unplanned cesareans. I help you understand what to expect, stay calm, and feel grounded before, during, and after the birth. Doulas cannot always go in the OR (that is dependent on the anesthesiologist) but with patient advocacy we often times can be there to talk you through the procedure, support birth wishes including skin to skin, nursing during repair, and hold your hand if partner needs to go with the baby to the warmer so you’re never alone. Afterward, I can assist with early bonding, feeding, and navigating recovery.

Postpartum Doula FAQs

What does a typical postpartum day shift look like?

Postpartum support looks different for every family, but the goal is always to make your day feel lighter. I check in on how you’re feeling, support feeding, help with newborn care, and make sure you’ve eaten and rested. I can tidy up, start a load of laundry, prep snacks or meals, and create a calmer flow in your home. Every visit is tailored to what you need most that day.

Do you offer overnight support?

I do not currently offer overnight support but can refer you to some amazing night time doulas.

Do you support all feeding choices?

Absolutely. Breast, chestfeeding, formula, pumping, combo feeding. My job is to help you feel confident in whatever works best for your family. No judgment, just support and practical guidance.

How do you support mental and emotional health postpartum?

I check in on how you’re feeling, help you process the birth, normalize what’s happening, and offer grounding strategies. I also watch for signs of overwhelm or postpartum mood disorders and can connect you with resources if needed. You never have to navigate this alone.

Can you help with sleep?

I can help with newborn sleep basics, safe sleep setups, and realistic expectations. I don’t do sleep training, but I support healthy rhythms and strategies that make nights feel more manageable. My goal is to help your whole household rest better.

Do you work with multiples?

Yes. As a twin mom myself, I love supporting families with twins or multiples as I know first hand how much they benefit from extra hands and guidance.