Frequently Asked Questions

What is a doula?

A doula is an emotional, physical and educational support person and companion; a safe place, a sounding board, a friend - offering unwavering support during your pregnancy, birth and postpartum period. My responsibility is to provide guidance, information and education, to ensure that any, and all, decisions you make during your pregnancy and birth are not only informed, but are your own.

Do you replace my partner?

Not at all! I work with both you AND your partner to prepare you BOTH for labour, and ensure your partner has the skills, the confidence and the understanding to support you on the day. Having doula support is an absolute value-add to whomever you already have in your corner - partner, family, midwife, the lot!

Are you certified?

A Doula is not recognised as a certified profession. We only have certification signifying completion of our training.

Where did you do your training?

I undertook my training with Childbirth International, and have also completed the VBAC Link ‘Advanced VBAC Doula Certification’, and Milky Business’ “Breastfeeing Mastered - A Program for Postpartum Professionals” course.

When should I book a doula?

Whenever you decide you need one! The earlier the better, as we have more time to chat, but we can connect when you are planning a pregnancy, just pregnant OR due any day!

I'm due any day now but I need a doula!

We’ll be spending a whole lot of time together, without many breaks in between, but we can definitely get it done! Contact me and we can sort something out!

What areas do you service?

Primarily the Greater Newcastle and Lake Macquarie area. If you do live further afield, including Port Stephens, the Hunter Valley, or even a different state, contact me and we can discuss. Where I can’t travel, I can be virtually!

I'm not from Newcastle, can I still work with you?

I have options to doula from a distance! Contact me, and we can explore this!

Do you deliver the baby?

No, I leave that to the incredibly skilled midwife or obstetrician. I’ll be by your side encouraging, reminding you to breathe, and cheering you on!

Will you make decisions on my behalf?

No. I will ensure you are informed, and I’ll be your sounding board in regards to any decisions. I’ll also help advocate for you if needed. But all consent or decline comes from you. My goal is to make sure you are aware of your options and that you can make decisions knowing ALL of the facts.

Can I work with you if I want an epidural?

Definitely! I’m there to support YOUR birth whatever that looks like for YOU.

Can I work with you if I want a c-section?

Absolutely you can. There’s a bunch of preparation we can do around ensuring you have a gentle caesarean, and in helping you recover, bond and breastfeed your new addition.

Do you only come to home births?

Nope! Home birth. Hospital birth. Midwifery led. Obstetric care. I am there, wherever you plan to be.

What happens if I end up planning an elective c-section?

There is still a lot we can do beforehand to prepare your mind and body, as well as ensuring you are supported in your recovery and postpartum. As I won’t be needed to be on-call, a portion of your package will be refunded.

What happens if I want to book you before 12 weeks?

I accept deposits to secure your spot, but I hold the deposit until 12 weeks. In the event that your pregnancy is unexpectedly no longer proceeding and you have paid a deposit before 12 weeks, I will refund you.

What if my baby comes early or late?

Don’t worry. This is all accounted for, and I will be available whenever it may be that your little one decides to come. I will be on call from 38 weeks, but this doesn’t mean I won’t be around if they decide to come earlier than that.

Are doulas allowed on labour wards?

Of course. It’s just a matter of letting your health care provider know I am part of your birth team. I value communication, respect and professionalism.

You're a Physiotherapist too, do you include any pelvic floor assessment in your doula service?

I find it very difficult to separate my physio brain from my doula brain, so inherently my doula support is informed by my physiotherapy background, especially my work in Women’s Health. However, I do keep the clinical aspects separate - if you are wanting assessment of your pelvic floor I would invite you to see me in the clinic, but would not conduct this outside of that clinical space; if you have general questions, or overall aches and pains that you are unsure about - I am very happy to provide general advice and recommendations, but it would not be an individualised treatment as such.