FAQS
All the answers to the most commonly asked questions
ARE YOU VACCINATED?
Yes! I have received both shots of the Covid-19 vaccine. If you would prefer I wear a mask for our meetings in your home, just ask! I will be happy to wear a mask.
DO YOU HAVE RESTRICTIONS ON WORKING WITH A SPECIFIC PROVIDER OR FACILITY?
Nope! I am glad to work alongside whoever you have chosen to provide prenatal care and in any setting, whether it’s a hospital, birth center, or birthing right in your home! I respect your choices and will collaboratively work with whoever YOU have chosen to be there for your baby’s birthday. M&H is serving mothers in Braselton, Chateau Elan, Hoschton, Flowery Branch, Gainesville, Buford, Dacula, Oakwood, Lawrenceville, Jefferson, and the majority of Northern Gwinnett County, Jackson County, and Hall County. I am willing to travel within an hour of Braselton in any direction, so if you do not see your city listed here- give me a call and we can discuss your options!
WHY WOULD I NEED A DOULA IF I'M PLANNING TO BIRTH IN A HOSPITAL? ISN'T THAT WHAT THE LABOR & DELIVERY NURSES ARE FOR?
Labor and delivery nurses, midwives, and OBs are all essential parts of your birth team, but these individuals provide medical care. A doula fills the important role of supporting you emotionally, offering physical comfort, and providing resources to obtain information related to your pregnancy, labor, birth, postpartum, newborn care, and breastfeeding. Doulas work alongside your birth partner to ensure you are fully supported and cared for throughout your birthing experience. Unlike the hospital staff whose only job is a healthy mom and baby, a doula's only concern is YOU and your emotional well-being!
WHAT MAKES MILK & HONEY DIFFERENT FROM OTHER DOULA AGENCIES?
Anyone can go through a doula certification program and be taught the physical processes of birthing a baby, what they can’t teach you is empathy, compassion, and trust. Being a doula is something I hold very sacred to my heart and I truly believe serving mothers and their babies is a gift I have been blessed with. My purpose is to do everything I can to improve birth outcomes and ensure a healthier future for all birthing people. Being a doula is my full time job, because I believe all of my clients deserve my undivided attention. I am a birth nerd, and I will continue to stay up to date on all things labor related so I can always provide my clients with the very best resources. Because Milk & Honey is a private doula group, I don't answer to anyone and my approach isn't influenced by outsiders/third parties. I am focused on client-centered care, which means I really get to know my clients, and each mother receives a unique care plan based on her individual goals for birth. Birth is not a one-size-fits-all experience & I truly care about giving my clients the birth THEY want, not what the hospital staff wants, or society, or anyone else.
WHAT HAPPENS IF I NEED A CESAREAN?
I provide support for any type of birth, including a surgical one. We already know that just having a doula at your birth lowers your chance of a cesarean by 28%, but if it has been determined that a cesarean section is necessary I will provide in-person support for as long as the hospital allows. If the OB is flexible and allows me to be in the operating room I will be right there with you to take photos, videos, and provide emotional support, or simply hold your hand. I will do everything I can to make your cesarean birth as gentle and peaceful as possible to ensure you have a positive birthing experience. If the OB will not allow me to join you in the operating room I will be with you for as long as I can beforehand and immediately afterward to help you begin breastfeeding (if that is your choice for feeding). If your baby needs to be taken to the nursery I will stay with you so your birth partner can be with your baby. Birth can be very unpredictable, and I’m prepared to provide support no matter what journey your labor and birth takes us on.
WILL YOU WORK IF I GO INTO LABOR ON A HOLIDAY?
Yes! Once you hire me as your doula there is a 99% chance I will be able to attend your labor and birth. The only reason I would not be able to would be for a true emergency, which is why I have two other back-up doulas, so you will never be “left hanging”.
WHEN WILL YOU ARRIVE TO JOIN ME IN LABOR?
I prefer that you call me when you think you are in labor, even if you do not need me at that time. I can answer questions and make suggestions over the phone. We will decide if I should come right then or wait for further changes. I usually need about 2 hours to arrive from the time you call me to come. Depending on your location, time of day or night, and weather conditions, it may take me longer, although that is highly unlikely. We will decide where to meet- at your home or the place you are giving birth. Except for extraordinary circumstances, my back-up or I will remain with you throughout your labor and birth.
IF I HAVE A SUPPORTIVE PARTNER DO I REALLY NEED A DOULA? HOW DO DOULAS WORK ALONGSIDE BIRTH PARTNERS (HUSBANDS, WIVES, FRIENDS, OR FAMILY MEMBERS)?
Your birth partner (either a spouse or a loved one) is essential in providing you support. No one knows you as well as your partner and they make unique contributions that a doula cannot. A doula is there in addition to, not instead of, your partner! With a doula present, the pressure on the partner is decreased and he or she can participate at his or her own comfort level. Partners often feel relieved when they can rely on a doula for help; they enjoy the experience more. For those partners who want to play an active support role, I will assist and guide them in effective ways to help you in labor. Partners other than fathers (lovers, friends, family members) also appreciate the doula’s support, reassurance and assistance.
ARE YOU FAMILIAR WITH HYPNOBIRTHING OR HYPNOBABIES?
Absolutely! I have a lot of personal experience with self-hypnosis for childbirth and I really believe it works. If you'd like to know more about the Hypnobabies program I have provided a link below!
DO YOU PROVIDE SUPPORT FOR CLIENTS WHO WANT AN EPIDURAL?
Of course. As a doula I will provide you with all of your choices for pain relief in labor including the side effects and pros & cons. There is a difference between productive pain and suffering- you should NEVER be suffering during labor and if you feel an epidural is going to be the best way to enjoy your baby’s birth, I have plenty of things I can do to provide a special kind of support. Some of these include the use of a rebozo, a peanut ball, and massage techniques to help you stay calm and comfortable during labor. Pain relief is YOUR choice and I will not judge you!
CAN YOU TAKE PHOTOS OR VIDEOS OF THE BIRTH?
It is one of my favorite parts of my job! I love capturing the intimate moments leading up to meeting your baby, as well as the sacred moments just as he or she is born. Taking pictures or videos would be my pleasure!
DO YOU OFFER POSTPARTUM SUPPORT?
All of my clients will see me at least twice following the birth. Once, the day after you arrive home from the hospital or birth center, and again 1 to 2 weeks after the birth. I will provide you with breastfeeding support, information, and resources if you need some extra help. I can also offer my expertise on newborn care, sleep techniques, and answer any questions you might have. If you are comfortable, I would like to go over the birth experience and fill in any gaps you or your partner may have. Talking about the birth is a really important part of postpartum for closure and reassurance. I will also asses your emotional well-being and provide resources if you’re having an especially hard time or experiencing any emotions greater than the expected “baby blues”.
DO YOU ACCEPT INSURANCE?
No, currently I do not accept any form of insurance. It would be wonderful if your insurance provider covered my fees, but at this time Milk & Honey Doula Services is not an accepted doula group for insurance coverage. Doulas have been proven to improve birth outcomes, so I hope in the future there will be more options so anyone who wants a doula can have one.