I understand that not everyone identifies as female, or mother. I hope that my support can empower you on your journey in the knowing that the birth of a baby is transformational - regardless of gender identity or expression.
Doula FAQs
Are doulas medically trained?
On the whole, no.
Doulas are not medically trained; their role is supportive. However, some doulas may also be midwives.
A doula will not offer advice, or make decisions, but help you to understand your choices and options with evidence-based information.
I’m worried about being naked in front of my doula!
This is your birth and you can wear whatever you feel comfortable in.
A doula will support your wishes so that you feel relaxed.
Antenatal sessions with your doula are a great place to discuss any fears or concerns you have about any aspect of the birth; remember, your doula will be part of your team and you will build a great trust with her in the weeks/months before birth.
Can a doula join me at the hospital?
Absolutely!
Not only does this keep you held in a safe space for birth, but can be a extra support for the hospital staff to know you are being supported if they are busy.
What if I have a caesarean birth? Will you still be with me?
A doula may not be able to join you in theatre if you have a caesarean.
However, if you have a caesarean planned, then having a doula in the room would be something you may like to discuss/check with your hospital.
If your caesarean is unplanned then it may be likely that a doula would wait for you in the recovery room. A doula will still be very much a part of your birth around a caesarean.
Can a doula be at my home birth?
Absolutely!
Essentially, your doula will be with you wherever you choose to have your baby and will continue to support you completely.
What if my labour goes on for a long time?
A doula will be by your side for as long as you need her.
However long your labour lasts, a doula will offer continuity of care. This could be two hours or three days; and this is absolutely fine and very much a part of a doulas role.
What does it mean to be a mentored doula?
I am a mentored doula with Nurturing Birth.
This means that my journey as a doula is supported by the guidance and expertise of another doula who I trust. As a life coach myself, I believe that mentoring is a vitally important way to ensure that my journey remains committed and focussed on my clients, and that my energy is clear as I support you.
A survey of birth doulas conducted by Nurturing Birth showed:
It has also been shown by research undertaken in the USA that having the support of a doula is likely to reduce the length of labour (Kennell & Klaus)
Hypnobirthing FAQs
When should I begin a Hypnobirthing course?
You can begin a Hypnobirthing course from week 20 of your pregnancy and I recommend that you complete a course by week 36 to allow plenty of time for you to practice and gain the full benefits for the rest of your pregnancy and your birth.
I’m 34+ weeks pregnant - can I still do Hypnobirthing?
Absolutely!
I offer a course over two days which is perfect if you decide to do Hypnobirthing later in your pregnancy.
Does Hypnobirthing guarantee me a pain-free labour?
Many birthing people who have used Hypnobirthing - myself included - do indeed say that they have had a pain-free birth, but I cannot begin to promise a perfect, pain-free experience!
The aim of Hypnobirthing with The Calm Birth Method is to have a calm, positive and more comfortable birth; a birth where you are able to make empowering decisions, whatever the circumstances, that are right for you. It is important to recognise that childbirth can be affected by many different factors, some of which are beyond your control, but remember - every birth can be a positive one.
Does my partner need to attend the classes too?
It is likely that your partner will be part of your birthing team, so their commitment to the classes means that they are also informed and knowledgeable by the time you are ready to meet your baby.
Even the most skeptical birth partners find themselves benefiting greatly from all aspects of the course, and the tools they acquire to support during labour and birth will give them a great sense of purpose when the time comes.
Will Hypnobirthing still work for me if I attend on my own?
Absolutely.
The benefits of Hypnobirthing are seen, whatever your journey, with commitment to practice. Many birthing people attend courses alone; if they have a partner who can’t make it, are a single parent, or a second time parent without a babysitter.
Which course is best for me?
It is entirely up to you how you decide to take part in my Hypnobirthing courses.
Some are looking to meet other, like-minded people to share their pregnancy journey with; others prefer a private, one-to-one course dedicated entirely for them.
Group courses are set out on specific dates and private courses dates are agreed between us both to work for you.