-BirthFocus-

Services and Fees   The fee for labor support services is based on the experience of the doula. Novice  - attended up to 6 births    - Fee is $500 Qualified  - attended up to 15 births  - Fee is $1000 Seasoned (Certified) attended at least 15 births - Fee is $1,500 BirthFocus Agreement (hire a doula)   All BirthFocus Doulas Provide: Support at home in early labor Birth Planning Breastfeeding Assistance Support for medicated and un-medicated births Labor Massage Hypnosis techniques for childbirth Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC) support Guided visualizations and  birthing imagery A written account of the birth During pregnancy, the labor support doula learns about the mother's concerns and priorities for the birth during extensive conversations. She stays in close contact as the due date approaches, providing reassurance and ensuring her availability for labor. During labor, the doula supports the mother continuously. There are no shift changes. The doula offers comforting touch and massage, emotional support and reassurance. She offers hot and cold compresses at just the right time, and knows effective positions for labor and birth. The doula acts as a calm familiar presence for the mother and her partner and provides simple explanations of obstetrical terms and procedures as necessary. Immediately after birth the doula offers breastfeeding assistance, information and support. She helps the mother get settled in her post partum room. Visiting soon after the birth, the doula reviews the birth experience with the family, answering any questions and offers further breastfeeding assistance.   All doulas have been oriented to Beth Israel Medical Center.