Can I have Birth Doula support even if I am giving birth in a hospital and plan to have epidural?
Yes! Doulas are trained in the physiology of birth, how to help you move through labor, and how to manage intensity. Even with epidural, doulas can help clients continue to "move through labor" by utilizing positions and tools such as a peanut ball. Doulas also advocate for clients and assure that hospital staff understand their hopes and needs, as well as help clients assure they have needed information, benefits and risks in order to give informed consent. Our doulas work well with providers and are even regularly referred by several hospitals and practices!
my partner will be with me. should I still get a doula?
Absolutely. Doulas are experts in birth physiology, intensity management, positioning, and support. Your partner is an expert at being your partner! And that IS important! They offer things your doula cannot like the history, the love and connection, the intimacy, inside jokes, and pet names. This is both of your birthing day as parents. Let the doula wear the professional birth hat. Let your partner sink into loving and caring for you.
What does a postpartum doula do while baby is asleep?
A postpartum overnight doula cares first for baby, and then for the healing parent. When everyone is asleep, the doula helps with baby tasks like your new little person's laundry, changing crib and bassinet sheets, stocking the diaper caddies, and washing bottles. The doula may also do some light meal prep for your breakfast or slicing fruits and veggies for snacks. Our hope is that, on the days we are not there, everything still moves smoother. We hope the whole family feels held and supported in this experience.
What if I don't have trauma? Is this support still important?
Even if there is no trauma history or mental health struggles, our doulas provide the same level of care. Trauma-informed support is simply safer and more supportive to everyone. Trauma-informed support give agency and autonomy, and empowers rather than leads. That's why our tagline is "Your body. Your birth. Your baby"! When there is trauma history, fertility or prior birth trauma, or mental health stuff present, this lens helps clients to feel safer and less activated or triggered. When there is not, clients likely will feel that extra layer of support anyway.
What makes moon sage mama different from other doula agencies?
Unlike traditional doula agencies, every doula at Moon Sage Mama is specially trained in trauma-informed care and maternal/whole family mental health and wellness. We understand that birth and postpartum are huge life events and hope to hold extra compassionate space for this time. Our goal is to help you feel your very best, empowered self as you are birthed as a parent!
when should i book my doula?
The best time is earlier on in pregnancy. The second best time is NOW! :) Booking early assures you can be matched with the doula who is the perfect fit for your birth and/or postpartum. It also gives you someone in your corner during pregnancy who you can ask questions, advice, and referrals. If you didn't book a doula and you are due soon, reach out. We may be able to acomodate last minute requests for support.