FAQs
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What is a doula?
A doula is a trained professional whose role is to provide emotional, physical and educational support throughout a woman’s pregnancy, birth and postpartum. A doula acts as an advocate for the Mother, encouraging and helping her to fulfil specific desires she may have for her birth and postpartum. Doulas are not medically trained (that is the role of your Dr/Midwife/care provider), however, we provide you with continuity of care, guidance and evidence-based resources to help you make the right choices for yourself. My role (and biggest goal) is to ensure you and your partner feel EXCITED and CONFIDENT about the birth of your baby.
PS: Doulas have gained popularity over the past decade or so, but we are actually old school (we have been around for as long as Midwives!)
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Why do I need a doula?
Statistics don’t lie, and evidence-based research has proven that women who engage the support of a doula have better outcomes.
If you want to reduce your chances of having a c-section, reduce the likelihood of needing synthetic oxytocin or medical pain relief, increase the chances of having a spontaneous vaginal birth, increase the chances of having a positive birth experience + MORE…. then we are the right people to have in your circle!
Research has even shown that doulas can reduce your labour duration by approximately 40 minutes (yay).
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When should I hire a doula?
It is a great idea to hire a doula as soon as you find out you are pregnant so you have that unwavering support right from the start. But it is NEVER too late to hire one! Availability is definitely a factor, but please reach out regardless of your gestation.
You can seek the support of a doula at 40 weeks - there is no ‘expiration date’ when it comes to engaging support!
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Do you customise your packages or offer payment plans?
Every woman and every journey is unique and I am always happy to be flexible, based on your specific needs. Please do not hesitate to contact me for customised packages and flexible payment options.
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I don't live on the Central Coast but I would love your support?
At present, I am only providing support to women on the Central Coast. In the future I will be expanding my support to surrounding areas (Sydney and Newcastle). Stay tuned!
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How do I know you are right for me?
Choosing a doula is such a personal choice, and finding the right fit is key! Doulas offer different prices and packages and it can be overwhelming to pick from all the wonderful options. Experience matters, but more importantly, connection matters!
Whether you opt for a seasoned pro or a fresh face, the most important thing is that you vibe and click with the person. This is why I offer free/no-obligation ‘connect calls’… so we can chat and ensure I am the right fit for you before we lock anything in.
Trust your instincts—I like to think finding your doula is like discovering your “pregnancy soulmate”. You’ll just KNOW. It will be an intuitive gut feeling, you’ll walk away feeling like you NEED this person in your space and you may even finish each others…. birth plans.
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Where did you study?
I completed my doula studies through The Doula Academy of Australia and I am fully certified. I am more than happy to present a physical copy of my certification, if requested.
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Do you support ALL births, including C-sections?
Yes, yes and yes! I am here to support the birth YOU want, however that looks for you.
Please reach out if you are having a planned cesarean. I do not have an offer specifically for c-sections but I would love to help you achieve your dream belly birth with a customised package!
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Will my partner feel 'replaced' if I hire a doula for my birth?
A doula’s role is to complement and enhance your birth experience, but we certainly don’t replace your partner - we actually work WITH your partner. Not only are we an extra set of hands for your most important day (and as you enter Motherhood), but we provide a lot of emotional support for partners throughout the journey as well!
Building a strong connection with you is absolutely crucial, but it is equally important to me that I have a positive relationship with your partner too. Rest assured, if you BOTH invite me into your space, your partner will always feel supported, heard and respected. (I also like to think of myself as your partner’s “trusty sidekick” when they need a rest... now that’s a selling point, surely?!)