what else is included ?

We'll talk about:

First prenatal appointment (2+ hrs) 

second prenatal appointment (2+ hrs)

~ exercise and nutrition during pregnancy
~ your options surrounding birth, and informed choice
~ the stages of labour and what to expect
~ medications including induction options
~ birthing too fast, or having to transfer locations
~ alternate care options for optimal fetal positioning (massage, chiropractic, naturopath)
~ the birthing partner
~ massage and touch during labour

We’ll talk about your birth location, your values and birth plan and you’ll have the opportunity to meet your secondary doula. 

We'll talk about:

~ the possibility of a C-Section
~ delayed cord clamping and placenta
~ protecting your perineum during labour
~ coping and relaxation during labour
~ breast/chest feeding + the breast/chest feeding partner
~ bonding with your newborn
~ parenting and newborn baby care
~ safe sleeping with your newborn
~ your maternity health appointments with other care providers.

We’ll make sure we understand you, your birthing preferences and what’s important to you; working towards creating a successful and memorable birthing experience.

If baby is still 'comfy inside' at 41 weeks, we’ll have a meeting to discuss what's next. Whether or not to induce your labour and what type of induction options you could potentially use. This is a complimentary appointment, only done if necessary for situations out of your control.

*emergent meeting at 41 weekS (1+ Hr)

- We'll attend your birth and support your for the length of your labour as needed. 
- We'll provide practical help in preparing the birthing area, customizing your space, setting up the birthing pool and decorating for you. 
- As your labour progresses, we’ll coach and support you and provide support your partner and/or children.
- If the need arises, we’ll advocate for you.
- After birth, your doula will prepare a fresh cup of tea to warm your body, clean up the birthing space, take down the pool and start a load of laundry.
- We'll provide immediate support in breast/chest feeding.
- We'll discuss your baby's wellness and give your baby a bath.  
- Our care is different for every birth; our goal is to support you the best way we can.

during the birth:

before the birth:

after the birth:

First postpartum appointment
(2+ hrs) 

second + thiRd postpartum appointment
(2+ hrs each)

~ We’ll discuss and answer any practical questions about what you may be experiencing
~ We’ll spend time in your home providing hands on support like cooking, light housework or laundry
~ We’ll provide compassionate and encouraging support
~ Your doula will provide ongoing breastfeeding/chest feeding support
~ If needs arise, we’ll connect you with community resources like physio therapists, sleep and nutrition consultants, lactation support.

~ We’ll discuss your baby's growth and ongoing wellness
~ We’ll talk about your birthing journey and experience for closure
~ If you have any baby or postpartum body-related questions, we’re here
~ We’ll talk postpartum body awareness and nutrition
~ We’ll talk about sexual health and re-introduction to sex
~ We’ll discuss your needs and the potential of continued doula support

Relationships are important to us at Stages. As soon as you onboard with us, you’ll be able to meet with your doula regularly via Zoom to chat about how you are feeling and to discuss your pregnancy. Zoom visits are not formal prenatal appointments, but are an opportunity to connect, ask questions and become comfortable with each other. By communicating with your doula, you are building trust; the foundation of a successful birthing experience.

connecting

Our regular Zoom meetings will continue up to six weeks postpartum at which time you'll have the opportunity to renew our support services or thrive solo.

continued connection