What does a doula do?
A doula is a professionally trained support person that offers informational, physical, and emotional support during pregnancy, labor, and postpartum.
How does it work with multiple doulas?
The doulas alternate appointments with you and alternate call schedules during your estimated due window beginning at 37 weeks. The doulas coordinate together to ensure you have the support you need. A doula team means there is significantly less chance of having to call in backups if there were to be a unpredictable circumstance that would prevent your doula from attending your birth. Throughout pregnancy the doulas all stay in contact with you so that we can build relationships with each client prior to their birth.
What happens if I go into pre-term labor? Would you still come?
We will always do everything in our power to get to you.
What happens if the Doula on call can’t make it?
Another other doula from Sweet Blessings would come.
How do I contact the doulas with questions during pregnancy/postpartum?
Upon hiring the doulas you will be given direct lines to each doula. During the daytime hours you can call/text anytime you want with questions. If a question arises overnight and it’s not an emergency we request that clients use their client portals to send us a message. We go to bed early because we never know when we will be called out to a birth over night.
What should I do if I think I’m in labor?
Do a happy dance! Then text the doulas to give them an update. This allows the doulas some time to prepare to leave their families. If it appears that you are most definitely in labor please CALL the doulas. Texting is not nearly as loud on our phones as calling.
How long does it take the doula to get to me?
We have doulas all over. One is in Marshfield, Springfield, Mt. Vernon and Joplin. Drive time will vary and it also takes some time to pack and get out the door. We usually tell everyone to plan for an hour or two (it’s usually less than that).
What happens if a cesarean is needed?
We will still support you to the best of our ability. The doulas will most likely not be allowed in the operating room during the cesarean, but we will be waiting close by until we can see you. From there we will assist with breastfeeding, and comfort measures during recovery.
What if I need more postpartum visits than I thought?
No worries. You can add on visits as needed.
What do you recommend I do during pregnancy to prepare for my birth?
- Read Real Food for Pregnancy and research Brewer Diet as early as possible.
- Take some birth classes. (Stay tuned. We are adding in some cool classes in the near future!)
- Find a Webster certified chiropractor.
- Don’t settle for a provider you don’t trust. Keep shopping until you find the right one. Ask the doulas for their recommended list of midwives and OB’s.
- Stay active and rest when you need to.
- Plan for the postpartum period.
- Ask all of the questions.
Do you just serve clients that want a natural birth?
It’s not our place to tell a client what they should and should not do. Our job is to provide the information for you to make a decision and then to support you in whatever you decide. We have had some clients that have a goal to keep it all natural and others that want the epidural in the parking lot. Both style of clients are given the same judgement free care.
Do you attend home and hospital births?
Absolutely! Wherever you decide is best for you to give birth we fully support.
Do you attend unassisted births?
No. We support your decision to birth the way you feel is best but we do require you to have an OB or a Midwife at your birth. We are not trained to deliver a baby or to do any clinical tasks.
What else should I expect with Sweet Blessings Doulas?
A prayer team like no other. Each and every client of ours is near and dear to our hearts. We are constantly in prayer for all of them. We tend to like to check in with clients between appointments so don’t be shocked if we text here and there. We want all of our clients to be comfortable with us. We can do our jobs much better if we keep communication lines open with each client. Please don’t be shy to send us pregnancy updates. We love hearing from you!
What happens after my birth?
You can choose some postpartum care sessions if you would like. If you choose not to have postpartum help please remember that we are ALWAYS your doulas. We don’t care how much time has passed. Don’t be a stranger.
What all do we do at visits?
No two clients are the same and no two clients care should be the exact same either. We have topics that we make sure to discuss with each client at various points of pregnancy but we stay flexible to be sure to meet your needs. Some common topics/demonstrations we do regularly are: nutrition, breastfeeding, what to expect in labor, comfort measures, how dad can help, labor positions, postpartum tips etc.
What if I move away? Will I get a refund?
Absolutely! We understand that life can throw unexpected curveballs. If you need to end support with us for any reason we would bill for whatever services have been received and issue a refund if services have been prepaid.
When should I start care with the doulas?
We tend to book quickly so we suggest reserving your doulas as soon as possible. You can decide when you use your appointments though. Some clients wait until the last stretch of pregnancy and others space them out throughout pregnancy. We do what you want.
Do you accept insurance?
Not yet, but we plan to offer that option very soon!
How do you advocate for me?
We get to know your goals and concerns and we assist in communicating those needs to the staff. We firmly believe that a peaceful birth can’t happen when there’s tension in the birth room. There is always a way we can work together with the medical staff to make that happen.
What is the difference between a midwife and a doula?
A doula provides informational, physical and emotional support. A midwife performs clinical tasks and is a medically trained professional. A doula does not perform clinical tasks.