Doula Services
I believe that there is a doula for every woman, and that it is vital that the mother (and her partner) feel a connection with the doula, that their personalities work well together. To facilitate this, I offer a consultation free of charge, to meet with you and see if I am the right doula for your birth.
Should you decide to have me as your doula, this is what you can expect from me:
1-2 prenatal visits, in which we'll discuss how you see your labour and birth unfolding, natural methods of pain relief (such as massage and hydrotherapy), comfort measures during labour, and much more. Should you decide to make a birth plan, I'm available to help you with that as well.
24/7 on-call availability for your birth, from 37 weeks onward. I will come and meet you once you feel that you need me. I will remain with you continuously until the birth, and up to two hours postpartum. Breastfeeding support, both immediately following birth and in the first few days, should you require it
2 postpartum visits, one the day after birth and one a week later. We'll talk about the birth and your feelings about the experience, help with breastfeeding if needed, and of course gaze in awe at your beautiful new baby!
Use of my lending library
Support by phone or email should you have any questions
My fee for doula services is $500. Should finances be an issue, I am open to making arrangements/payment plans; please let me know.
Placenta Encapsulation
Placentophagy, or consumption of the placenta, is a relatively unknown practice in the Western world. Unfortunately, most people in our society are unaware of the many benefits this practice provides to the mother. Consuming the placenta has been said to:
- Help milk come in as well as increase milk production
- Help ease postpartum mood changes and/or prevent postpartum depression
- Provide large amounts of vitamins and minerals, helping the body recover more quickly from childbirth
- Cut down on bleeding postpartum
This remarkable organ contains many hormones that are very beneficial to both mother and baby postpartum, such as:
- Prolactin: promotes lactation (breastmilk production)
- Oxytocin: helps uterus contract down to pre-pregnant size, promotes bonding by increasing feelings of love and connectedness, facilitates breastfeeding
- Thyroid stimulating hormone: boosts energy and recovery from stressful events
- Cortisone: combats stress, unlocks energy stores, reduces inflammation and pain
- Interferon: stimulates the immune system to protect against infections
- Prostaglandins: reduces inflammation
- Urokinase inhibiting factor: reduces bleeding and enhances wound healing
- Gammaglobulin: immune booster that helps protect against infections
It also contains high levels of nutrients and minerals, such as:
- Iron – essential for oxygen absorption and transport
- Vitamins B6 – aids in the making of antibodies and hemoglobin, helps cope with stress
- Vitamin E – assists healing damaged skin, prevents oxidative damage to cells, reduces pain from uterine cramping
Taken from New Roots Birth Services www.newrootsbirth.ca
The method of placenta encapsulation I provide is called the raw dehydration method. The placenta is dehydrated at a very low temperature in order to retain nutrients, then grinded and encapsulated. Many people find this preparation of the remedy to be the most palatable way to consume the placenta.
The cost of placenta encapsulation is $150 (this includes required supplies), but is available at a reduced rate to my doula clients. I also am open to bartering for this service - if this interests you.
