After talking on the phone, we will set up an interview. This meeting does not obligate you to use my services. If you select me, then I will want to become familiar with your Birth Plan, including your preferences regarding pain management options and the use of pain medications. I also want to know your own best ways of coping with pain and fatigue and how you and your support people foresee working together. I would like to meet with you and your other support people a minimum of two times before labor to become acquainted, to explore and discuss your priorities and any fears or concerns, and to plan how we might best work together. I can also fill in any gaps left by your childbirth classes. At these meetings, we can discuss payment options.

I will inform you of any times when I am unavailable for labor support. At this time I am unable to provide back up support.

When You Are In Labor

I prefer that you call me when you think you are in labor, even if you do not yet need me. I can answer questions and make suggestions over the phone. This helps me to get my childcare arranged and make sure I am ready to leave as soon as you need me. We will decide if I should come right then or wait for further change. I usually need approximately one hour to get to you from the time you ask me to come. We will also decide where to meet -- at your home, the hospital or the birth center. Except for extraordinary circumstances, I will remain with you throughout labor and birth.

After Birth

I usually remain with you until you are comfortable and your family is ready for quiet time together. I can also help with initial breastfeeding, if necessary. If you plan to breastfeed I would like to stay until you have done so successfully at least once.

I would like to make one visit soon after you give birth to make sure that you are doing well, and make referrals to local resources if you need them. I prefer for this visit to be at your home once you have settled in. This visit can also be at the hospital if you like. If you feel that you are doing well and would like privacy, this is not necessary.

I am available by phone to answer questions about the birth or your baby and would like to get together with you within one to two weeks to see how you are doing, to review the birth, to admire your baby, and to get feedback from you about my role.

Additional Services

In addition to the services described above, I can also take photographs and provide you with an album documenting your birth if you would like me to do so.