Frequently Asked Questions
What is a ‘full spectrum’ doula?
A full spectrum doula provides support to families and individuals throughout the entire spectrum of pregnancy, its outcomes, and beyond. In addition to pregnancy, birth, and postpartum services, I offer support and resources to those trying to get pregnant, looking to expand their family through adoption and surrogacy, as well as those who are accessing abortion care or experiencing a loss. I believe that all people deserve meaningful, non-judgmental, educational, physical, and emotional support (and love!) while navigating any situation, expected or otherwise.
Are doulas only for “natural”/non-surgical births?
Not at all! You can benefit from the support of a doula for any kind of birth, from home birth to a planned cesarean. I am also prepared to support you through any change of plans - planned or otherwise!
Aren’t doulas expensive?
Doula fees vary depending on the service(s) being offered. I offer a flexible fee scale, payment plans, and may be open to bartering to partially cover my fee. I am also in the process of growing my community fund, which will help me provide no-cost support and scholarships and increase accessibility to doula support and childbirth education. Every client who is able to afford to pay a fee at the top of my scale contributes to this fund and allows me to work with folks who otherwise may not be able to afford doula support.
How early should I hire a doula for my birth?
The answer to this question is really subjective! I would say that, on average, my clients usually hire me between 15-20 weeks. I would absolutely encourage you to reach out as soon as you’re ready, though! I’ve worked with clients as early as 5 weeks and as late as 30 weeks. You can read more about when I think you should hire a doula here.
How many clients do you work with at a time? What if you’re needed in 2+ places at once?
I’m currently only working with 2-3* clients/families a month. I have never had 2 or more of my clients go into labor or need me at the same time (*knocks on wood*), but if and when that does happen, I will call my backup doula to jump in wherever needed!
*Update as of March 2023: While I am also a student midwife, I will only be taking on 1-2 clients a month as I will also be caring for 15-20 families at a time in my preceptor’s practice!
Do I need a doula if I have a supportive partner(s)?
Having a doula would still be a benefit to you and your partner(s)! It’s important to remember that a doula’s job isn’t to replace your partner(s) but to help them play to their strengths and to support you both during this incredibly transformational time. It is a lot to ask of someone who be your sole support person and experience the birth of their child at the same time.
What happens if I hire you for my birth and I experience a loss?
If you do experience a loss or receive a fatal diagnosis during pregnancy, I will be there to support you through it. As a full spectrum doula, I am trained to work with clients through many different experiences - including miscarriage and stillbirth. You will not have to face it alone.
How far are you willing/able to travel to be my doula?
Currently, I am able to drive up to 45 minutes (one way) to support clients. This usually includes most of SE Wisconsin: Milwaukee, Ozaukee, Washington, Waukesha, and Racine counties. If you are located outside of this radius, you have a few options: I could support you virtually, I could help you find a doula in your area who I would recommend, or we can discuss arrangements for me to come and support you in person (this usually includes a travel fee or other travel arrangements). I definitely wouldn’t object to traveling, but there are several things to consider that we’ll need to discuss to make that happen!
How would I know if we’ll be a good fit?
Finding a doula that is right for you is very personal, and there are plenty of different factors to consider. This is a unique compatibility, not a universal skill. You should also consider talking with several doulas before deciding on one. Some things I’d really encourage you to think about when choosing a doula include:
What kind of support are you looking for?
It’s okay if you don’t know exactly what you need, but you should try to envision your ideal pregnancy and birth and how your doula could best support you. This might change after you start working together, but it’s a good place to start!How important is it that your doula has identities or experiences that reflect your own?
Is it important that they hold these identities or have experienced these things firsthand? Or is it enough that they’ve demonstrated that they can provide affirming care? Is political or religious alignment important?What kind of training do you want your doula to have?
Is specific training important to you? It’s important to know that there is no standardized training for doulas, and many of us have taken several trainings and continue to pursue continuing education!Is experience important?
Whether it’s in general (how many people/families have they supported?) or with specific situations (have they supported a client during a cesarean? do they have experience supporting clients at home births?), consider what kind of experience you’d like your doula to have and why.
What is your budget?
While I would urge you to please not choose a doula based on price point alone, there’s no denying that cost is definitely an important factor. If you find a doula you really click with and they are out of your budget: do they offer payment plans? Do they have a community fund, offer discounts, or offer to barter?
As for working with me specifically, I’d encourage you to read my bio, look over my guiding principles, visit my social media, and check out my testimonials to get a sense of who I am and what experience I bring to this work.
If you have any other questions or you’d like to set up a free consultation, send me a message!