FAQ
All your doula questions answered here!
Q. What areas do you serve?
A. I serve the following areas of New England:
Massachusetts: South Eastern MA & Boston
Rhode Island: The entire state!
I am willing to work outside of these regions within reason, please feel free to contact me and let's chat!
Q. What are your credentials?
A. Read about them here!
Q. Are doula services covered under insurance?
A. Some insurance providers may provide a reimbursement for doula expenses, however I cannot bill them. You may pay with your HSA/FSA/HRA. Please check with your provider to review your policy.
Q. I'm planning on having an epidural, can I benefit from having a doula?
A. Yes, of course! My role as your doula during labor will play a part in comfort measures prior to, during, and after the epidural is placed. I will help you assume various positions to ensure the medication is being distributed evenly and the baby achieves optimal position as well. My presence during birth is geared towards keeping you and your birth partner calm, relaxed, and focused. Though the approach to labor and birth shifts, all prenatal & postpartum care remain the same.
Q. I'm having a scheduled c-section, can I benefit from having a doula?
A. Absolutely!! Cesarean sections are births. I believe you deserve as much care and support as a vaginal birth. Similar to my role during a medicated birth (above), the approach to labor and birth evolves to your needs, while all prenatal & postpartum care remains the same, though additional postpartum care will be provided at no additional cost.
During the consultation we can discuss your specific needs and concerns to establish an individualized plan.
Q. How can you support my birth partner?
A. I am just as much present for your birth partner and I am for you. During our prenatal appointments I will teach your birth partner a variety of support methods to be utilized throughout the end of your pregnancy and during labor & birth. Once you're in labor, my role will be to assist your partner with these techniques and help them actively participate in the process and support you. Having a doula present also allows your partner to take a break, grab something for you, and so forth. You will never be alone and you and your partner will always have a calm, trusted presence at all times.
Q. You've mentioned the words "birth partner" a few times: What is a birth partner? What if i don't have one?
A. A birth partner can be any person (or persons) you choose to accompany you throughout the birthing process. This person could be your partner, a family member, or friend. Typically the birth partner is someone that you share a very close and personal connection with - one who can pick up on certain tones, expressions, and needs that someone who has just met you wouldn't necessarily catch on to right away.
If you do not have a birth partner, do not worry. Myself as your doula and your medical care providers will be there to support you 100% of the way to ensure you have the best experience possible!
Q. How is your role different than my L&D nurse?
A. Though the nurses do play a fantastic role in emotional, physical, and educational support, they usually cannot devote 100% of their time with you during labor and birth. Nurses perform clinical and medical procedures such as monitoring fetal heart rate, vaginal exams, monitoring temperature and blood pressure and ensuring both mom and baby are safe throughout the process. While they would love to do nothing more than to be by your side uninterrupted, it unfortunately is not the reality. A doula does not care for multiple labor and births at a time and is therefore able to provide continual care and support.
Please click the button below if you have a question not listed here!