Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly does a doula do?
A doula provides emotional, physical, and informational support throughout your pregnancy, labour, and postpartum period. I help you prepare for birth, stay calm and comfortable during labour, advocate for your own needs with your care team, and settle into life with your new baby afterward.
What doesn't a doula do?
I don't provide medical care — that means no clinical exams, fetal monitoring, medication, or medical advice. I also don't make decisions on your behalf or speak directly to staff for you, but I will always help you gather the information you need and encourage you to ask the right questions. And I don't provide transportation or childcare during appointments or labour.
Do I still need a doula if I have a midwife?
Yes! Midwives and doulas serve very different roles. Your midwife provides clinical care; I provide continuous emotional and physical support. Many clients work with both.
When will you be on call for my birth?
I'm on call 24/7 from 38 weeks until your baby arrives. If labour starts before then, I'll do everything I can to be there as arranged.
What if you can't make it to my birth?
In the extremely unlikely event I can't attend due to my own error, you'll receive a full refund minus the retainer. In cases of very long labours, I may bring in a trusted backup doula to support you while I rest, so you always have continuous coverage.
What happens if I need a C-section?
If an unplanned C-section happens after labour begins, I'll continue supporting you in the operating room as hospital policies allow, and immediately after. If a planned C-section is decided before labour, I'll support you during the procedure and after, or provide an additional postpartum visit. No refunds apply in either case.
How and when do I pay?
A $250 retainer is due when you sign your contract — this reserves your spot on my calendar and is non-refundable. The remaining balance is due by 35 weeks. Installments can be arranged. Payments accepted via cash or e-transfer. Please note that labour support cannot be provided until your balance is paid in full.
Can I cancel?
Yes. If you cancel, you'll be refunded your full payment minus the $250 retainer and any fees for services already provided (meetings, phone support, on-call time, etc.). Refund requests must be made within 6 weeks of your baby's birth.
Do you support all types of births?
Absolutely. Vaginal, C-section, medicated, unmedicated — I support whatever path your birth takes and whatever choices you make. My job is to make sure you feel informed, heard, and cared for, no matter what.
How do I reach you when I think I'm in labour?
Call me — don't text. We'll go over exactly how and when to contact me at our first prenatal meeting.
Still have questions?
Reach out anytime. Your first consultation is free and there's no commitment involved.