Doula Services

A doula is someone who provides assistance in birth education, empowerment in self advocacy for their desired birth outcome, physical support in labor, emotional support in post partum, and a nonjudgmental space to discuss any concerns and worries.

I am a nurturer by nature. I have 4 children of my own who are much older than the clients I work with – ages 14 to 21. Needless to say they are more independent with each passing day. Attending births fills a void for me. I have a need to take care of people (and plants, ha!) Because I’ve already spent 10 years in the birth space as a birth photographer, it only seemed natural that I would begin to incorporate more hands-on support to my clients!

Within an hour of Cedar Park

I typically provide doula support until pushing, and then switch to camera for the actual birth. I’ll continue to document during the first 2 hours post partum but am also able to assist with breastfeeding and will makes sure you are tucked in with a good meal before I leave!

Not at this time

I can guarantee 40 images but may take more.

Birth stories, breastfeeding and newborn sessions. My doula clients also get to pick either a complimentary maternity session or short (1-2 min.) post partum film with the doulatog package.

Especially during COVID times, the fewer people at your birth, the better. Hospitals won’t even allow birth photographers at this point in time, but will allow doulas. In that case hiring a doulatog is the only way you will bet images from your birth.

I am more than happy to schedule a call with your husband or partner. They may feel unsure of where hiring a doula leaves them.

Will there be anything left for them to do? The answer is absolutely! By having me there to assess your needs and provide support with extraneous tasks like refilling water, supplying cold cloths, answering questions or informing oyu of your options, your partner will be able to just focus on you and being with you in this experience. It is, to some degree, their birth too and being able to fully experience it is important.

I require 50% upfront to put you on my calendar. Your balance is due at 35 weeks, prior to when I officially go on call.

No

I’m counting on it! Prenatals are a part of your investment and an important part of getting comfortable with each other and preparing for your birth.

2 at most

At this point in time most hospitals allow doulas in the birth room. However it is always a good idea to tell them (as well as your provider) that you’ve hired one.

As soon as you feel like something is happening, let me know. You likely will not require much physical support until you are in active labor, however I am available any time during the birth via phone or text. I typically arrive once active labor begins but that’s not a rule so much as a suggestion. You know the saying “a watched put never boils?” Well, it can actually hinder you to have too many people around before your body truly established a labor pattern.

It’s the most likely scenario! I’m available for your birth whether during the day or the middle of the night.

I typically stay until the newborn exam is complete. I also want to make sure you are feeling content with breastfeeding and have had all your physical needs met before I go.

Love you through it. As a doula my best skill is supporting you emotionally whatever happens.

I will do what is best for you, your partner, and your baby, even if it means giving you some space.

The on-call period officially begins at 37 weeks, but that does not mean I will not attend a birth earlier than that. It just means there is a greater chance of me being at another birth or needing to call in a backup.

Yes! She has as many years experience as I do and our shooting styles are very similar. I am happy to tell you more about her during our prenatal consult.

The only reason this might happen is if I’m suddenly ill , have gotten into an accident or something extenuating has happened. I will send in a backup if I am able. If not, I will refund you in full less 50% of your deposit, and supply you with a complimentary past partum visit and newborn session.

Doulas and birth photography can be very beneficial during cesarean birth. I would be honored to attend if you’d have me, and help you prepare for your cesarean during our prenatals, support you and your partner through the surgery, document it and provide the post partum you need.

Whether it’s a hospital transfer or an emergency cesarean, I will remain by your side.

I provide every image in both color and black & white.