Birth Doula Package
Before you need to make any decisions or commitment I offer a free initial get together which gives us the opportunity to get to know each other, see if we feel that I can support you as you deserve and sort out the practicalities of our respective situations. After this meeting I leave you a contract which you can then think about and complete if you decide to book me.
As your doula I would then meet you and your partner (ideally) for 2 or 3 ante-natal visits where we can talk through questions/hopes or concerns you may have about your ante-natal preparation and care, your birth, be it homebirth or hospital, and the immediate post natal period. I am also available once you have booked me by phone, e-mail or text as you wish. It is not uncommon for me to attend a hospital appointment or meeting with midwife if your partner is not available and you want a bit of extra support.
Between 38 and 42 weeks I am on call for you 24/7 and will come and support you in labour and until you are comfortable after the birth, be it homebirth or hospital, and the immediate post natal period. I also work with other local DUK doulas for back up should I be unable to attend due to extreme circumstances.
Following the birth of your baby I will make 1 or 2 post-natal visits at a time that suits you. I am also happy to continue being available to you by phone, e-mail or text as you wish after the birth should you need me. Post Natal support beyond this is part of my post natal package.
All my clients have full access to my doula library which includes a range of interesting, useful and less common birth books and use of my homeopathy kit during your birth if you wish.
Post Natal Doula Package
In my post natal work the concept of “mothering the mother” becomes even more relevant as the mother is now busy mothering her newborn and the focus of care often shifts. I am happy to do whatever is needed when I visit which often includes cooking for you or the family, tidying, baby/sibling care, listening and supporting you as you make the transition to motherhood, support and signposting with newborn care including feeding in short whatever it takes for me to leave “a happy mummy, baby and family”. I see this as helping the mother to enjoy what in more traditional societies and times was a prolonged “lying in” period – where the mother is supported and has all her needs met so she is able to focus on getting to know her newborn, having time to be with older siblings too and recovering her physical and emotional strength during this special time.
As time passes I hope to work myself out of a job as my support helps you to get back on your feet and mother your baby in the way that instinctively feels right for you as this is what is best for your baby.
My post natal support is, if possible, even more flexible than for birth since circumstances vary so widely and are so unpredictable before the birth. My flexibility continues as your needs change over time.
My Costs
As I have already stated what I do is flexible and very much tailored to your needs and this applies to charging as well, the following are a guide:
Birth Package – As a Recognised Doula UK Ltd. Birth Doula – £750
Post Natal Package – As a Recognised Doula UK Ltd. Post Natal Doula I charge £20 per hour.
Ways to help Fund a Doula
Doula UK Gift Vouchers – Instead of more baby gifts why not ask your friends or work colleagues to buy you gift vouchers which I am happy to accept. These can be purchased in £25 or £50 denominations from Doula UK Gift Vouchers and become “A Gift that really makes a difference”
Doula UK Access Fund – I have previously and am happy to continue to support women who access this Access fund. If you feel that you are eligible for this then please do enquire. For further information go to Doula UK Access Fund
In line with my philosophy I believe that all women deserve a doula and would not be comfortable if my charges prevent that please do talk to me if this is difficult for you.