Frequently Asked Questions
What services do I provide?
I am a full spectrum doula – that means I support pregnant people in all aspects of their pregnancy, regardless of the outcome of their pregnancy. I support folks prenatally & through child birth; I support folks through postpartum and/or through breastfeeding; I support people through pregnancy loss as well.
I am also a traveling doula and newborn care specialist — so I travel outside of NY & CT to support families as well.
What is a full-spectrum doula/birth worker?
I have been a full spectrum birth worker for over 15 years. That means I have supported pregnant people regardless of the outcome of their pregnancy. I believe that my job as a birthworker/birthkeeper is to support a pregnant person just like I would support a family or friend – with love, dignity and respect.
If you have more questions about the services I provide, please click the Birth Doula or Postpartum Support buttons in the menu bar.
Do you want a birth doula but also want to ensure your partner is playing a role during labor?
As your doula, I’m here to support you as the pregnant person, and also your partner. Partners have lots of feelings about being a parent and also bearing witness to this major moment and don’t often have an outlet. Through our work together, I make sure that I teach your partner techniques to support you prenatally, encourage them to be hands-on support while you are in labor, and teach how they can be supportive to you postpartum. Your partner is a key member of your birth team!
What areas do I support families?
• Connecticut: Fairfield, Litchfield, & New Haven Counties; • New York: The Bronx. Westchester, Putnam, Dutchess Counties, and the Mid-Hudson Valley.
If you want to work with me and you don’t live in these areas, send me a message, I can see how I can accommodate you. Otherwise, I can connect you to other doulas in my network that work in your area.
What does a Lactation Counselor do?
I tell people often, breast/chest feeding is not easy just because it’s natural. As a Lactation Counselor, my job is to support you through the process of breast/chest feeding – if that is your goal. I do an initial assessment and help you with latching, ways to hold your baby, ways to take care of yourself while nursing, etc.
Am I fully vaccinated?
Yes. I am fully vaccinated and boosted (COVID, TDAP, Flu). As we go into the colder months, I commit to wearing a mask in public spaces and even in your home, to make sure that I don’t bring anything into your home.
When will I come to support you?
Birth support: I come whenever you’re ready for me. My job is to support both you and your partner – even if that means your water breaking at 2am. We speak on the phone to see how you’re feeling, but the moment you want me to come over, I’ll jump in my car and get to you.
Postpartum/Newborn Care Support: If we are working together during the postpartum period, I typically prefer to visit your home on the first day you return home from the hospital, birthing center, or other care facility. The initial days with your baby can be filled with uncertainty, as you’re trying to catch up on sleep and learn your baby’s personality. My job is to help you through this transition. However, if you would prefer I come after your partner goes back to work or some other time, I am flexible!
If you are planning to have an epidural, do you still need a doula?
Absolutely! Doulas help offer you comfort techniques before you receive your epidural. Once you have an epidural, I will help with moving you from side to side and helping to center you and your birth team to welcome your baby. I am still there as a resource to you and your partner, and of course, postpartum, I assist with the initial latch and nursing (if breast/chest feeding is your goal).
If you’re pregnant with multiples, can I still help you?
• Connecticut: Fairfield, Litchfield, & New Haven Counties;
• New York: The Bronx. Westchester, Putnam, Dutchess Counties, and the Mid-Hudson Valley.
If you want to work with me and you don’t live in these areas, send me a message, I can see how I can accommodate you. Otherwise, I can connect you to other doulas in my network that work in your area.
What are the benefits of hiring a birth doula?
• Doulas INCREASE the rate of vaginal births
Doulas INCREASE birth safety
Doulas help to remind you and your birth team of your body’s wisdom and strength
What are the benefits of hiring a postpartum doula/newborn care specialist?
As someone who is certified as a postpartum doula and newborn care specialist, my approach to support in the postpartum period is a holistic one.
I work to ensure you are healing after childbith, supporting you if breast/chest feeding is your goal, ensuring you and your partner get rest through the night.
I follow AAP safe sleep guidelines to ensure your baby sleeps safely and to give you, the parents, peace of mind.
If you are interested in working with me; what do you do next?
Fill out my contact form, and we can schedule a time to speak. Our call will take 30 mins. I’ll ask you a little about yourself, talk to you about me, and ask what you are looking for. We will get to learn about each other and see if we’re a good fit!