Birth Support
KALEIDOSCOPIC IN NATURE
Birth support can look like counterpressure and hip squeezes. It can look like grabbing emesis bags real quick because you're in transition and feeling vomitty. It can look like focusing on felt senses to bring you back into your body if anxiety and fear are running away with your mind. It can look like offering you water or ice or snacks or kind words. It looks like being your faithful and confident cheerleader, knowing you, your body, and your baby are capable, and affirming and reminding you of that. It can look like checking in on your partner, getting them food or drinks, reassuring them, and honoring their sacred and irreplaceable support. It can look like sharing and advocating for your preferences with your care team. It can look like asking for a few minutes without care providers in the room for you and your partner to discuss things and come to calm and empowered decisions. It can look like holding the shower head on your back or a cool rag on your face. It can look like dimming the lights again after the care provider has left the room. It can look like laying your affirmation cards in front of you, or bringing in some flowers from outside because you just need some nature in the hospital room. It can look like any of these things and infinitely more.
At its core though, and at the core of how I interact with, engage with, and believe in birth, birth support is bearing witness to the birther, in their power and wisdom. It's seeing, acknowledging, honoring, and affirming you, your body, your baby, and your process.
Working with me as your birth doula includes two prenatal visits, continuous labor support, and two postpartum visits.
Who you choose to welcome into your support team is an intimate and meaningful decision. So that we can both feel like we're a good match, I freely offer either a 30-minute exploratory video call or 30-minute coffee date in-person in Central Austin. The purpose of this call/meeting is to get a feel for each other. How do we vibe? How does our energy feel to each other? Do we feel safe, open, and comfortable to each other? That's our starting point. This work is relational. The container is relationship.
The two prenatal visits can be in a public place or in your home. We'll talk birth education as necessary, dive into your preferences, learn movements and pain management techniques, and prepare for the postpartum period, too.
I'll be on-call for you from week 37, meaning my schedule has been cleared and I'm available for your birth at any time, day or night. I support via call and text in the earliest stages of labor, and come to your home or chosen birthing place when you're ready for more support.
The first postpartum visit happens within the first few days post-birth. I'm here to help you process the birth experience, answer any questions, and hold space for reflection. The second postpartum visit happens around 1-2 weeks post-birth. I'll come to your home and listen, raid the pantry and cook, make you some tea, or hold baby while you take care of yourself. That visit is flexible, and I'll support however you most need it.
Sound good? Let's chat! Fill out the contact form below and I'll reach out to schedule our free consultation.