What is a Doula?
The Ancient Greek word doula, means female assistant. A doula is a trained non medical person. She can provide emotional and physical support during labour and birth, and practical help once your baby has arrived. A doula can also direct you to lots of information when making important decisions about pregnancy, birth and caring for baby.
The science confirms that the support of a doula reduces unwanted interventions and increase the satisfaction of your birth experience.
The qualities that are most important when choosing a doula is a calm and caring person, that you feel relaxed with.
Antenatal
The antenatal classes I provide are private for you and your partner in your own home. There are normally 2 sessions lasting 2 hours each.
I use visual aids to explain what’s happening during labour and birth, to discuss your feelings and create a birth plan
We also discuss pain management,breathing techniques and Labour massage. We will discuss the pros and cons of breastfeeding and formula feeding and make preparations for your choice.
The Birth
During the labour and birth I will be with you to help you emotionally and physically. I can offer labour massage and help you with breathing techniques and visualisation. I can help your partner to feel useful and involved, making this a wonderful family memory for you both.
Postnatal
Included in the birth package is 1 visit during the first week at home. This visit lasts 1-2 hours. We will discuss your feelings about your birth experience and I can help you with any breastfeeding problems. If you would like more visits to help around the home, care for baby while you rest, or look after older children, this can be arranged. I’m also happy to accompany you to medical appointments, Help you with baby’s first bath and baby sling wearing.
The full postnatal package is 15 hours of help, but this can be extended to as much as is needed.
Recommendations
Stories and testimonials from mums that I’ve helped
Mum D and baby F
I was really struggling to breastfeed my week old baby girl. Karina helped us so much, not only to help her feed but with emotional support. She is very kind and patient, a very calming person to have around to help. We wouldn’t have done without her!
Mum K and baby twins
Karina was invaluable when my twins were newborn. I felt comfortable and confident leaving them with her whilst I had a nap or did some housework. She was patient and calmed me when I was worried or stressed with two screaming babies! I was very lucky to have her around to help x
Mum A and baby F
“She gave us the support we needed. Without ever feeling like she was taking over. I would recommend her to anyone.” Mum A. Baby F
Mum K and baby A
“Karina has all of the qualities you would want from a doula: kind, caring, empathetic, reliable, supportive ... and there to advocate for your wishes. She gave me love and care at a time I really needed it” Mum K and Baby A
Packages
These are the packages I offer.
Birth Package £850
This package includes:
- Our initial meeting
- 2 antenatal classes in your own home
- The labour and birth
- 1 hour postnatal visit
Premium Birth Package £1150
The premium package contains all of the above and:
- 20 hours of postnatal help. This can be used in the first weeks at home or spread out up to 12 weeks after birth
Postnatal Only £262.50 (15 hours)
- £18.50 per hour -or-
- £262.50 for 15hours (£17.50per hour)
I can provide postnatal care once you’re home. This can include breastfeeding counselling, baby care advice or help, housework, cooking, shopping and help with caring for your other children.
Sometimes you may just want some company and someone to talk to.
I’m here to help you with whatever you need
Private Antenatal Classes
- 4 hours £100
Antenatal classes for you and your partner, in the comfort of your own home. These 4 hours will be split into 2 sessions. The discussions will include physiology of birth, hopes and fears, breastfeeding and baby care, and help with your birth plan.
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