Frequently asked questions

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A birth doula is a professional support person trained in the needs of the family during pregnancy and childbirth.  The doula offers non-judgmental support, guidance, evidence-based education and practical hands-on support during childbirth, including comfort measures. The word "doula" originates from the Greek word meaning woman servant. A birth doula recognizes the profound impact of childbirth on the birthing parent.  The birth doula does not provide medical care or clinical tasks and does not speak on behalf of the client.
 

 The decision to have a doula is a very personal choice. Evidence shows that:

• Doulas lessen your chance of having a c-section.
• Doulas decrease pain during birth... in other words, when you have a doula, your birth doesn't hurt as much!!
• Doulas lessen the duration of labour... this is another way of saying they can make the client's birth progress more quickly!
• Doulas help the birthing parent feel better about their birth.

If you can't make up your mind just contact us. The initial meeting is free and will help you to decide if having a doula is right for you.

I will come and visit you to do a thorough assessment of your needs. Together we will tackle any fears or anxiety you may have about labour and childbirth. We will develop a birth plan which clearly outlines the type of birth experience you would like. We will discuss pain management and include your preferences in your birth plan. We will practice relaxation techniques and comfort positions to help you during labour and birth. Most importantly I will offer you informational, emotional and physical support throughout the entire process. My focus will be on supporting you, and meeting your needs.

The information in your birth plan is flexible. It outlines your ideal birth. If you change your mind we update it. If you decide during labour that you want different pain management, we ensure you are fully informed and respect your decision. This is your birth, your way. It's important to remember that there may be medical reasons why your birth plan cannot be implemented or needs to be modified on the day. 

That's what I'm here for. I'll visit you twice before the birth, be with you throughout labour and birth, and then visit again after the birth. You will have my personal mobile number and can call me anytime. 

Absolutely not. We are here to support you no matter what choices you make regarding your labour and birth. We can help to inform you about your options and work through any fears or concerns you may have, but ultimately this is your decision. We respect your decisions fully and provide support to pregnant parents and partners regardless of where you decide to give birth or what pain management options you choose.

Feel free to contact Michelle to discuss your needs before you make an appointment. The wellbeing services are available to you pre and post partum.  All services are available online or in person at EsoLab, 3/177-181 Moray St, South Melbourne. 

Steph will discuss your needs and tailor a package that suits you. Every new parent has differing needs and expectations. We are here to help in any way we can. Just ask! 

We can start anytime from birth to 6 weeks. Some parents need ongoing help beyond this time, and some parents may choose to start later. It's really up to you.

Each session is a minimum of 4 hours but you can choose how many sessions you would like each week. We can be flexible and work out what you need. 

That depends on the services you select. At Bump & Beyond we individualise our services to meet the needs of each client. We are proud to offer services from our Wellbeing Therapist to complement the birth doula offerings. The standard package includes complete doula services and three wellbeing sessions, but you can add further wellbeing services at an additional cost if you wish. Reach out to find out more.