How I help during labor: 
First, I get everyone involved, on the same page with what kind of birth mom wants.  I make sure mom, partner, any additional visitors, and lead nurse, have all established trust and are sharing the same goal for what will take place.

Second, I prepare the birth room.  I like to make the environment as comfortable and relaxing as possible.  I bring a diffuser to cover over any hospital smells with oils of your choice.  I lower the lights to help mom get relaxed.  If mom prefers music, I set up speakers playing at her desired volume.  I create positioning stations, using whatever we have on hand – shower, tub, birth ball, labor bed, pillows, birth stool, etc.  This way when mom is ready to change positions, everything is ready.

Third, I administer counter pressure to mom’s back during contractions using a heat pack and squeezing to help with pain.  Based on fetal positioning, we adjust positions and strategies throughout labor, to help her cope with pain while also encouraging baby to continue moving through the birth canal.  Essential oil therapy is also an option.  As much as we can, dad and I will work together to help mom through contractions.

Fourth, once mom is ready to push, either I or the lead nurse will coach the pushing.  Often times, we work together to coach pushing.  I will help mom with positioning and also get dad involved, as much as he prefers to be involved with this process as well.

Fifth, I would say my greatest asset at a birth, is my reassuring nature and ability to keep the birth environment, and everyone present very calm.  I know when a dad is about to pass out, I know when mother-in-law is talking too loud, I know when mom is uncomfortable with something taking place – these are things that I am trained to recognize and resolve before it disrupts the birth room or mom’s focus.

Click HERE to see the “Letter of Agreement”

I am a certified birth doula, trained by DONA International. I live in New Braunfels, Texas and serve local families here and in the surrounding area.

Basic Birth Package $1750:
(2) In-home consultations to plan your birth
Attend (1) doctor appointment with you
On-call 24/7 for questions and to attend your birth
Full labor support 
Help with baby’s first-time latch
(1) In-home followup/lactation exam
Available for any questions once you are home with baby

In-home lactation counseling (non-doula clients) $50/visit
Breastfeeding basics for the beginner
Lactation troubleshooting
Latch issue resolution
Tongue-tie, lip-tie examination
Low-milk supply tips
Mastitis and clogged duct help
Automatic pump assembly and instruction

Attend an extra doctor appointment + $100

Write your birth story + $100