Labor services
Whether this is your first baby, second baby, or beyond, there is likely a touch of anxiety or nerves that go along with labor and birth. That is a part of the reason I became a doula-- because I strive for all of my clients to birth with strength and power, rather than with fear. I am passionate about this experience that is going to be deeply engraved in your heart and soul.
A labor doula is able to be present for all types of births. Whether that be a hospital birth, a scheduled cesarean birth, birthing at a designated birth center, or a home birth. Please note, I do NOT attend planned 'free births'. All births with Danica Hayes Doula need to be followed by a midwife or practicing physician.
Initial Virtual Consultation
All of my consultations are always done at no cost to you. During the consultation, we will talk about how you are feeling, your pregnancy, your outside supports (a partner, parent, etc) and how you envision your birth and labor experience. We will talk about what a labor doula does and I will answer any questions that may pop up.
Prenatal Sessions
All of my packages include at least 2 in-person prenatal sessions. During these appointments, we will work through some of your feelings and any concerns regarding your birth and labor. We will write out a birth preferences plan, review the style of support and techniques that work for YOU. We will also cover a little bit basic of birth education. These meetings are open to your partner to attend as well! The prenatal sessions are a great way to build the intimate relationship between client and doula.
On Call
I will be around to answer any texts, emails, or phone calls during your pregnancy. I will get back to you within a few hours, if not right away. Typically 2 weeks before your estimated due date is when the doula will be on call, 24/7 to you. Feel free to ask any question! Nothing is off limits.
Support During Labor
My goal in being a part of your labor and birth is for you to feel informed during every stage and to normalize all feelings that may arise. I will support you educationally, explaining every stage of labor as it happens. If any interventions are necessary, I will explain the benefits, risks and any alternative options. All of your choices will be supported. I will support you physically, with comforting pressure, counter pressure, massage, and different labor and birth positions. We will create a safe, comforting space for your birth. I come with a bag of supplies full of comfort and pain relief tools. I will also support you emotionally. Birthing a child is an intensly emotional journey and is unique to every person who experiences it. I will be there to calm and validate your feelings, calm an anxious partner, and hold space for whatever emotions may arise. I will act as a sounding board to your feelings and aid in creating peace and progress.
Immediate Postpartum Care
Typically I will stick around for up to 2 hours after your birth to aid in any breastfeeding (if that is chosen), answer questions and concerns and to ensure you and your partner are comfortable and settling in okay with this new stage of your life. A couple of days after your birth, I will schedule our postpartum visit. During this visit, we will do a general check in to answer any questions, ensure you are settled with feeding and check in with your mental health. Postpartum mood is something that I am personally very passionate about and I want to ensure every new parent is feeling supported.
