Frequently asked questions
Wait, you can photograph AND offer doula support?
Yes! As an experienced birth photographer and doula, I’m very comfortable moving between roles. I shoot purposefully, which means I have ample time to give my clients physical and emotional support in between taking images. During the moment of birth, your care provider will step in to help you deliver your baby, which gives me the opportunity to photograph the moment you and your partner meet your baby. Many of my clients prefer to keep their birth team as small and intimate as possible, which is why more and more families are choosing to hire a birth worker who can offer both doula support and birth photography. All of my doula clients receive a birth gallery of at least 50 professional edited images.
Where do you work?
I’ve supported doula clients at nearly every hospital and birth center in Knoxville, TN. I also have attended homebirths, and I love supporting families who desire to give birth at home. I support: VBACs, unmedicated births, inductions, medically complex births, twin births, homebirths, hypnobirths, cesarean births, freebirths, and more.
What are the benefits of having a doula?
Studies have shown that the presence of a doula can lead to shorter labors, fewer complications, reduced need for interventions like pain medications and C-sections, and a more positive childbirth experience overall.
Are Doula Services Covered by Insurance?
More and more insurance policies are moving towards covering and reimbursing for doula services. If finances are an issue - I do offer a select number of sliding scales each year.
When should I hire a doula?
It’s never too early or too late to hire a doula. Some families choose to hire a doula early in pregnancy to benefit from their support throughout the entire process, while others may hire a doula closer to their due date.
What does doula support look like?
As a doula, my aim is to help you understand your options and encourage you to use your voice to advocate for what YOU want out of your birth experience. I understand the process of birth well, and I’m able to offer education, resources, and hands-on support during pregnancy, labor, birth, and postpartum.
A birth doula can:
help you craft your birth plan
talk through your fears/concerns
offer you 24/7 text and phone support
help your partner better support you during birth
provide water or food during labor
give you counter-pressure and hip-squeezes
suggest different positions to help you labor more effectively (trained in Spinning babies)
encourage you to advocate for the birth you want
collaborate with your care team to provide exceptional, family-centered care
and most importantly remind you of just how strong you are.
Will a doula replace my partner during childbirth?
No, a doula’s role is to support both the mother and her partner. A doula can help partners participate in the birth process to the extent they are comfortable and ensure they have the support they need as well.
How does a doula support me during labor?
A doula provides continuous support during labor by:
Suggesting positions and movements to help with labor progression and comfort.
Providing comfort measures such as massage, breathing techniques, and hydrotherapy.
Offering emotional reassurance and encouragement.
Helping with communication between you and your medical team.
What if I have a planned C-section or need an emergency C-section?
Doulas can support you before, during, and after a C-section by providing information, helping with preparation, and offering emotional support. After the surgery, a doula can assist with recovery and breastfeeding.
Do you offer prenatal or postpartum sessions?
I love to connect with my clients both before and after their birthing days. This looks different for each family. Sometimes we meet in person for coffee. Other times we meet in your living rooms. I also LOVE taking long walks, and would be happy to meet you at Lakeshore Park. I want you to feel safe and safe both during your birth and your pregnancy.
After your baby comes, I am more than happy to come to your home for a postpartum session where we can talk about your birth and how the first few days/weeks of parenting are going. Other families prefer to just receive support during birth. My doula packages are customized to your specific needs and journey.
Does every family need a doula?
You are capable, strong, and powerful. No one needs a doula to have an incredible birth experience. I truly believe that you have everything you need within YOU. But I also believe that doulas can bring extra love and support to one of the most incredible days of your life…and you deserve all of that and more.
Can I still have a doula if I’m planning an epidural or other pain management?
Absolutely. A doula supports all types of birth plans, including those that involve epidurals or other pain management options. They can provide support and information to help you make informed decisions about pain relief.