FAQs

Answers to your Questions

You are a man doing what?

Yes, I am a male labor doula. There aren't a lot of us, but we do exist. Despite being male, in a predominantly female role, I am passionate about contributing to positive outcomes in birth. I am committed to operating in a highly professional and compassionate manner. Additionally, you'll get the added benefit of someone who can relate to your male partner uniquely. I have been a father in the delivery room. I know how out of place it can feel. But you know what? It doesn't have to be that way.

How much do you charge for your services?

The initial consultation is free. It can be virtual or in person. If both parties agree we are a good fit, the cost is $900—half to retain my services and the remainder due by 37 weeks. There will be a second meeting at around 35 weeks. During that time, we will put together a birth plan and attempt to address any physical or emotional discomforts that you may be experiencing. After the initial retainer is paid, I will be available for as many questions, texts, emails, phone, or video calls as needed.
Additionally, I will provide helpful information and recommendations upon reaching specific milestones throughout your pregnancy.

(Note: I am a new doula, which requires me to submit evaluation forms for a specified number of births to complete my certification. If you are willing to fill out some forms and contribute to the growth of a new doula, you get a 50% discount. Bringing my rate down to $450.)

What is your service area?

Winston-Salem and the surrounding areas. More specifically:

Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center, in Winston-Salem, NC
Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist "The Birth Center", in Winston-Salem, NC
Natural Beginnings Birth Center, in Statesville, NC
Cone Health Women's & Children's Center at Moses Cone Hospital, in Greensboro, NC
Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Maternity Center at High Point Medical Center, in High Point, NC
Home births, within 1 hour's drive.
If you would like to deliver, outside of the locations mentioned above, reach out to me anyway. We can certainly discuss it.

What specific training do CAPPA labor doulas receive?

Provide non-biased emotional, physical, and informational support during pregnancy, labor and the birth process, and the immediate postpartum period
Work closely with the mother and family as they explore their values and needs surrounding birth
Encourage the mother to seek care and a place of birth that reflects her own values and needs
Assist in the preparation of birth preferences to facilitate communication with the birth team
Model, teach, and encourage effective communication
Encourage informed decision making
Provide information on birth options and resources
Provide the client with non-medical comfort techniques for labor, such as positions and movement, comforting touch, visualization, breathing techniques, and affirmation
Seek to foster a cooperative, respectful, and positive atmosphere with the birth team
Provide support to the birthing person’s support partner and/or family
Support and assist initial breastfeeding
Assist the family in processing their birth experience
Answer general questions about newborn care and breastfeeding

How will hiring you affect my partner’s role during the birth?

My hope is that when the partner is present, they will be as engaged and involved as they are comfortable being. I will guide and encourage them on how to support the mother and I will be as hands-on or hands-off as you choose. My goal is to make the total birth experience as comfortable, safe, and memorable as possible.

What are the evidence based benefits of a Doula supported birth?

Immediate Benefits

Cesareans reduced by 26-50%
Length of labor reduced by 50%
Oxytocin use was reduced by 40%
The use of narcotics was reduced by 30%
Use of forceps reduced by 30%
Epidurals reduced by 60%

Long-term Benefits

Improved breastfeeding
Increased time spent with baby
Decreased postpartum depression

Women attended by a labor doula are:

Significantly more likely to have a spontaneous vaginal birth
Less likely to have intrapartum analgesia (narcotics)
More likely to have shorter labors
Less likely to have a cesarean
Less likely to need instrumental delivery
Less likely to have an epidural
Less likely to have babies with APGARs of 5 or lower
- Each factor scores 0, 1, or 2, and the test is performed twice. A total score of 7 or greater means the newborn is in good shape. A score of less than 7 means that the newborn is in trouble.
27% less likely to be dissatisfied with their births
Significantly less likely to feel a loss of control in labor