Birth of a Lifetime
Doula Services and Childbirth Classes
Gail Karlovsky, AAHCC, CD (DONA)
Nurturing Hearts and Empowering Minds
Email: gail@karlovsky.com
Here's what is included when you hire me as your doula
- Initial consultation - To help you decide if you would like to hire me, and to see if we are a good match for each other, I offer a free one-hour interview in your home (or a nearby restaurant or cafe if you prefer, cost of food is not included). This is a time to ask me questions about my philosophy, personal and professional experience, back-up plans, and other logisitical questions. It is also a good time to go over my contract if we mutually decide there is a good fit between us, sign it and work out payment plans.
- Prenatal Visits - Two one-hour prenatal visits, at least one week apart, are available for birth planning. I go over pregnancy exercises and proper nutrition. We discuss the choices available in birth and what your desires are. We also discuss what kind of support you wish the doula to provide. We practice labor positions and relaxation.
- Labor Support - Labor support means continuous support throughout your labor, starting from the moment you need assistance. It includes:
- Helping mom and her partner work together as they make their journey through the birth process.
- Guidance in relaxation during contractions, helping you to allow nature to move your baby through the stages of labor.
- Massage, positioning, and other non-medical pain relief.
- Help making the transition to your birth place as smooth as possible.
- Explanations of medical procedures and non-medical advice.
- Anything else that is helpful like getting food or drink for mom or her labor companions, taking pictures, talking to relatives at the birthplace.
- Up to two hours postpartum support, for help with recovery and breastfeeding.
- Postpartum Visit and Support - This is a visit at your home to discuss the birth and provide breastfeeding help. At any time after the birth, the doula may be called for questions and resource referrals.
This page is maintained by Gail B. Karlovsky, AAHCC, CD (DONA) and was last updated 1/25/2005 2:19:05 PM.