A birth doula is someone experienced in childbirth that provides continuous physical, emotional and informational support to the mother before, during and just after childbirth. The doula does not replace the role of the father or birth companion; rather, having a doula present allows the father or companion to concentrate on loving the mother. Studies have shown that when doulas are present, labors are shorter with fewer complications, babies are healthier and breastfeed more easily. (DONA)

As a doula, my strong nursing background is advantageous in the labor room to lend understanding when procedures, options and suggestions are made to the mother and birthing companion. Since I am hired by the expectant family, you are my only responsibility, unlike the nurses, physicians or midwives that have other patients to attend to and have shifts. It is my privilege to remain with you throughout your entire birth experience providing you with the consistent support a birthing family needs and ensuring that your wishes are carried out as close to your preferences as possible.

We begin our relationship with a meeting to get to know each other and see if I am a match for your needs. If you hire me for my services, we will meet twice before your birth to discuss your birth plans and I will also accompany you to one prenatal visit with your physician or midwife if you would like for all of us to meet together. I am on call for your birth and for any questions you have at any time during your pregnancy or early postpartum period. After the birth of your baby, I will remain with you until you are comfortable, and meet with you at home around your baby’s one week birthday.

Please contact me kelly@brightbirth.com with your personal questions and to learn about my availability. I do tend to book out months in advance, so it is never to soon to start interviewing doulas to find the right fit for your family.

My rates are: $800 for HypnoBirthing Alumni, 50% payable at the time of retainer, and the remaining 50% at approx your 36th week of gestation. $900 for non-HB families.

If I am not the right match for you, or perhaps you have a different price range or questions about alternate payment schedules, you are still welcome to contact me so that I can provide you with other reputable references. I encourage families to interview several doulas as the balance of personality and experience is so important when you are inviting a professional to this most intimate day. I have personally trained many other doulas in the area to support HB families.