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FAQS

Frequently asked questions.

WHAT IS A BIRTH KEEPER?

A Doula provides physical, emotional, mental, educational, and spiritual support for a woman during pregnancy, birth and postpartum. A doula can also support the father or other support person during mother's pregnancy, birth and postpartum journey. 

WHAT ARE BENEFITS OF HIRING A BIRTH KEEPER?

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  • 39% decrease risk of Cesarean.

  • 15% increase chance of spontaneous vaginal birth.

  • 10% decrease use of pain relief medications.

  • Labour is shorter on average by 41 minutes.

  • 38% decrease risk in baby’s Apgar score.

  • 31% decrease risk of the mother being dissatisfied with the birth experience.

WHEN CAN I CONTACT YOU DURING MY PREGNANCY?

Once you have decided our match is right for your pregnancy and birth journey, you can message me anytime between business hours, Monday to Friday. From 38 weeks, I will be 24/7 'on-call' via phone and text in between any appointments we have. It can be beneficial for you to call rather than text in the last weeks before birth.

ARE BIRTH KEEPERS MEDICALLY TRAINED?

Unlike a midwife, doulas/birth keepers are not medically trained; however, they are knowledgeable about labour and childbirth as they have extensively researched pregnancy and birth. A birth keeper also educates parents-to-be on different birthing methods so that you can make an informed decision about your birth and for your baby. Birth keepers do not make any medical choices for the mother/baby as we full trust the mother to decide these things herself.

HOW DO YOU APPROACH BIRTH?

As a Birth Keeper, I trust the design and process of labour, birth and postpartum. Birth is a natural biological event for a pregnant woman. I approach pregnancy and birth holistically and support you to feel healthy and confident about the process of birth. With a desire for open and honest choice and transparent consent, I will support you in your clear decision making process as you feel are the best choices for you and your baby during your pregnancy, birth and postpartum journey. 

WHAT HAPPENS IF I CAN'T ATTEND YOUR BIRTH?

Being an experienced birth keeper means I have attended many births. I hold each relationship close as it is extremely important to keep the mother/baby bond safe and so we feel connected before your labour starts. Once booked, I am fully dedicated to your pregnancy and birth journey. The likelihood of me not attending your birth is very rare. There are only extreme reasons why I would not be able to attend. There will be the option for a 'backup' birth keeper and/or photographer in some cases if that is something you felt comfortable with. The 'backup' will be someone I feel confident in their abilities to support you and has a similar approach to birth while knowing you feel comfortable with them too. In case no one can attend the birth in person, I will be available via video for the duration of your birth. I will always be open if this looked like a possiblity.

WHAT IF I CAN'T AFFORD YOUR SERVICES?

Every pregnant woman deserves access to a support person who can encourage them to have the birth they desire. Sometimes finances can be a barrier to achieving this. I have options for different payment plans. Some people have skills and services that may be suitable for trading. Please reach out, and I will be happy to discuss different options.

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