FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions - Sacred Journey Childbirth Services

A. A Doula stay's by the side of a laboring mom from the moment she feels she needs her. A Doula gives laboring techniques to the birthing mom and her partner to help ease pain and / or to help progress labor. She informs the parents of the pro's and con's of medical interventions if intervention is recommended be the doctor. A Doula helps the mom to nurse the baby after birth and making sure the baby is feeding properly. A Doula visits the family at home after the birth to answer any questions regarding newborn care, nursing, postpartum care, etc. a Doula helps to preserve to memory of the birth for the family.

A. A Doula does not take the place of a partner who is able to be present for the birth. Instead she helps the partner by giving suggestions which might be useful at different stages of labor. She also fills in for the partner should he or she have to leave the birthing mothers side for and reason. She is an advocate for the birthing mother to help her achieve her birth plan goals.

A. Hospital births need Doula's even more than home births. Hospital staffs get very busy and do not have much time to spend helping every birthing mother. Nurse often are running in and out of rooms which means the birthing mother is not getting the constant care and support she often feels she needs.

A. A birth plan is a list of laboring options that you wish to have happen for the birth. Such as, no epidural wanted or no pain meds unless necessary. Basically it's the do's and don'ts list for a birth that gets passed along to the hospital staff. The Doula does everything in her power to help the mom and partner achieve their birth plan goals.

A. Doula's bags are full of useful tools. Birthing balls, heat / cool compresses, massage tools, lotions, music of different styles and goodies to eat for partner and mom, if she is allowed. These are just a sample of things that a Doula may have with her.

A. Absolutely! Every birthing mother can make arrangements for payment. Depending on your situation service can be provided on a sliding scale.

A. The sooner the better, but generally anywhere from 6 - 9 months pregnant. The more time you have to spend getting to know your Doula prior to birth, the better for both the mom and Doula.