Frequently Asked Questions

A doula is a non-medical support worker, experienced with labour, birth and/or postpartum. They can provide care to people who are trying to concieve, are pregnant, are in labour and during their postpartum period. 

A full-spectrum doula offers care throughout the entire reproductive health journey, from preconception to postpartum, including abortion, fertility support, pregnancy loss and more.

Doulas make sure that their clients are well-informed, comfortable physically and emotionally, and that their needs are met. That can mean educating, non-judgemental listening, providing comfort measures during labour, encouragement and overall being in their client's corner! 

Doulas specialize in using relaxation and pain-relief techniques such as gentle massage, application of heat or cold, counter pressure, optimal positioning, progressive relaxation, and more.

Doulas are not medical professionals. They do not perform vaginal exams, diagnose, prescribe medications, take blood pressure, catch babies, etc. 

That is for you to decide, but most pregnant or postpartum people can benefit from hiring a doula. Having continuous support during labour and birth can decrease the need for pain medications, cesarean sections and instrumental delivery, increase the satisfaction from birth and baby' s Apgar scores. 

Hiring a postpartum doula can give you more time to rest and heal, an opportunity to process your birth and to ask all the questions you might have about the recovery, infant feeding, and more. A doula will prepare meals for you and your family, make sure that everybody is adjusting well and will recommend seeing a specialist if you have any questions beyond doula's scope.

Having a partner present at your birth doesn't mean that a doula's help is not valuable. Your partner knows you best and can provide a unique insight; they understand your needs and have an intimate relationship with you and your baby. They might not feel comfortable, however, when you are in pain, or in distress. 

A doula is experienced with birth and used to the sounds and behaviours expressed during labour. They can suggest ways in which your parner can help you during contractions. A doula will take care of both of you and give you space when needed. Their presence will also allow your partner to take a break, so someone always holds your hand or wipes your brow. Doulas and partners make a great birth team!

I strongly believe that all families should be able to access doula care. That's why I offer sliding scale fees and some pro-bono services. if you find yourself struggling financially but feel that doula support is something you need, please let me know! 

Although hiring a doula can be a big investment, there are ways to make it easier on your family. Some group insurance policies (such as SunLife or Carrot) cover doula support! Check with your provider - you might be able to use the flexible spending account. Asking your family and friends to cover a birth or postpartum package as a baby shower gift is another great option. 

Military personnel, paramedics, firefighters and police officers are offered 10% discount on all doula services. 

Indigenous Peoples are offered a 20% discount.

In the words of Alex J. Cunningfolk: "The sliding scale is a tool that allows for a product or service to be obtained at multiple price points based on the circumstances of the purchaser. This method allows folks who would  most likely be priced out of something to have the chance to take part in it. It also seeks to address the systemic inequalities of class in our culture."

Alex J. Cunnigfolk created the Green Bottle Method, which is a visual representation of how the sliding scale works. Please analyze the graphic to determine which statements are the most true to your circumstances. I trust my clients to be honest and do not require any proof of their economic situation.

The highest price point of my services represents their true value, the middle tier is slightly discounted to allow for better access, and the lowest price option is heavily discounted, for folks who find their situation best represented by the smallest bottle.

All services remain the same throughout the sliding scale.

Yes, I'm fully vaccinated against Covid-19 and get a yearly flu shot to help protect my community and myself. I do, however, work with clients regardless of their vaccination status.