Why should I use a doula?

Mothers who use a doula are statistically less likely to have a cesarean section, less likely to need pain medication, less likely to use Pitocin, and more likely to report having a positive childbirth experience.

What areas does SLO Mama offer services?

SLO Mama Birth Services offers birth doula support in San Luis Obispo County and Northern Santa Barbara County - including San Luis Obispo, Arroyo Grande, Grover Beach, Pismo Beach, Morro Bay, Avila Beach, Cayucos, Nipomo, Oceano, Cambria, Los Osos, Templeton, Santa Margarita, Atascadero, Paso Robles, Santa Maria and Orcutt. Regardless of what city you live in, SLO Mama Birth Services can support your hospital birth at Sierra Vista Hospital, Twin Cities Hospital, French Hospital, and Marian hospital.

Is a doula the same as a midwife?

Doulas are not the same as midwives. Doulas provide emotional, physical, and educational support as well as advocacy throughout your pregnancy and birth. A midwife or obstetrician provides medical care such as cervical exams, monitoring fetal heart rate, providing medication, etc. Doulas do not provide medical care.

At what point in my pregnancy should I hire a doula?

You can hire a doula as early as you like. My birth doula package includes unlimited access to my lending library and unlimited call/email support from the moment you book with me - so the earlier the better. Also keep in mind availability is limited to 3-4 births a month, so it’s best to book early to ensure availability for your birth month.

Are doulas only for unmedicated births?

Doulas support families through medicated and unmedicated births - vaginal and cesarean births. If you are planning on having an epidural, a doula will support you in managing your pain level until you are ready for the epidural, assist with getting baby into an optimal position, support your partner, and much more!

Are doulas only for home births?

No, I support families during hospital births, home births and birth center births. My main goal is helping you feel heard, respected and safe during your birth, wherever and however you choose to birth.

How many clients a month do you book?

I book three to four births a month. If two clients happen to be in labor at the exact same time, I would have a back-up doula respond until I could arrive to take over.

Will having a doula make my partner feel excluded?

Doulas work WITH your partner to help them know the best ways to support you. Doulas can help your partner be involved and comfortable with the birth experience. However, if your partner is wanting to be more hands-off during the birth (for example, they have high anxiety or faint around medical procedures) then your doula can help your partner find alternative ways to support you best.

When does a doula come to assist you during labor?

Families call me as soon as they think they may be in labor. I provide support via phone/text/video call until you are ready for me to join you. Most often, families want me join them once active labor begins. Some families prefer I support them at home before they go to the hospital, and some prefer me to meet them at the hospital. I’m happy to do either!

I’m interested in hiring a doula, what do I do next?

Click “Contact” at the top right of this page to connect with me, check my availability for birth doula services on your due date, and schedule a free consultation. This can be in person at a coffee shop, over a phone call, or on FaceTime or Zoom.