As a doula, I accompany women in labor to help a family pursue a safe and satisfying birth experience.  Doulas draw on their knowledge and experience to provide emotional support, physical comfort and, as needed, communication with the staff to make sure that you have the information you need to make informed decisions in labor. I can provide reassurance and perspective to you and your partner, make suggestions for labor progress, and help with relaxation, massage, positioning, and other techniques for comfort. I will also educate and guide your partner or additional support person to participate in your birth experience. As your doula, I am working for you, not your caregiver or hospital.  

Before your birth:
I will meet with you and your partner/additional support twice before labor. In our first meeting, we will become better acquainted, explore/discuss your priorities, and talk about any of your fears or concerns. I can assist with birth plan writing, if necessary, by providing evidenced-based information on risks and benefits of common interventions and procedures used during childbirth. Our second meeting together will focus on discussion and hands on coping techniques for labor, planning for postpartum and finalizing your birth plan. In between in-person meetings, you are encouraged to contact me via phone or email with any questions or concerns, resource assistance or for emotional support.

When you are in labor:
During the day, it is preferred that you call as soon as you think you are in labor, even if you do not yet need doula support. I can answer questions and make suggestions over the phone.  We will decide together if your doula should come right then or wait for further change.  Usually, I will need approximately one to two hours 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 birth center. Overnight, call when you are ready for me to join you.  Except for extraordinary circumstances, I will remain with you throughout the labor and birth. A backup doula may be called if I have been supporting you in labor for a long time, (typically over 24 hours) as I want you to always have the very best support.  

After the birth:
I will remain with you for approximately one to two hours after the birth, which is around the time that you are more comfortable and your family is ready for quiet time together.  Doulas can also with initial breastfeeding support, as well as taking photos for your family.  I am always available by phone to answer questions about the birth or your baby and would like to get together with you when you are settled to see how you are doing, to review the birth, and to get feedback from you. I am available to you for informational and resource support whenever you need.


What Doula’s do not do:
1) Perform clinical tasks, such as blood pressure, fetal heart checks, vaginal exams, and others.  I am there to provide physical comfort, emotional support, and advocacy.
2) Make decisions for you.  I will help you get the information necessary to make and informed decision.  I will also remind you if there is a departure from your Birth Plan.  
3) Speak to the staff on your behalf.  I will discuss your concerns with you and suggest options, but you and your partner will communicate your decisions and needs to the clinical staff.  


Failure of a doula to provide service:
If I am unable to attend your birth due to my own scheduling conflicts, more than one client in labor at a time, infectious diseases etc, I will provide a suitable backup for you. Should a backup not be provided or available, you will be refunded your doula fees minus the retainer fee.

Exclusions for refund: Emily Sheridan (or provided backup) will make every effort to provide the services described here in this contract.  However, sometimes this is impossible. Examples such as failure to call your doula early enough in labor or not calling at all; rapid labor or cesarean birth where your doula cannot accompany you are not reasons for a refund.  


Fees:
My fee for the service described here is: $1500 to be paid as follows:  A non-refundable retainer fee of $750 payment due is upon entering into contract. The remainder of $750 to be paid in full by or before you reach 36 weeks gestation. Payment arrangements/schedules can be arranged if necessary.