Hello!
Congratulations on your happy news :-) I'm Helen and I offer my services as a Birth & Traditional Postpartum Doula (Red Tent Doulas) in and around North Nottinghamshire, South Yorkshire and Lincolnshire.
I've been working in the birth world for almost a decade now. In my previous life (pre-kids!), I worked as an assistant headteacher and early years' lead across a large federation of primary schools in East London. I expected motherhood to change me in some way, but I had no idea it would completely alter the trajectory of my life!
I'm currently enjoying my 46th trip around the sun with my husband, our two children and our magical black cat, Pumpkin. We recently relocated from the bright lights of London to the green fields and forests of North Nottinghamshire and I only have one regret: not moving here sooner!
If you're looking for doula support, either for birth, postpartum - or indeed both, and you think we might be a good match, I warmly invite you to join me for a Virtual Cuppa. This is a complimentary and no-obligation session, which gives us an opportunity to meet and chat and see if we're a good fit to work together. The session will take place on Zoom and last up to 40mins.
Fancy a chat? 👉 Book a call :-)
In the meantime, here's a little more info about me and the services I offer...
In addition to my Doula qualifications, I'm also an Anxiety Breakthrough Coach, Antenatal Teacher and Hypnobirthing Instructor. I specialise in supporting 2nd, 3rd, 4th time parents who've experienced previous birth trauma, or births that didn't quite 'go to plan'.
I don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to birth. It's really important to me that you receive the right care for you and your baby - from the moment we start working together. As your Doula, I will provide both emotional and practical support. I will listen to you, care for you, protect you and advocate for you; helping you communicate your wishes and make informed choices which feel right for you and your baby.
With this in mind, I begin by offering my essential Birth Doula Package, which you can then add to/tweak to best suit you and your needs.
What does this look like?
Antenatal Care
-A complimentary initial consultation/ Virtual Cuppa - as described above;
-*2 antenatal home visits to help establish rapport, build a safe and supportive connection, and to discuss your birth and postnatal wishes and intentions;
-Ongoing support via text/WhatsApp or email from week 38;
-On-call 24/7 from week 38 of your pregnancy/10 days prior to your EDD until your baby is born;
-Practical support to set up your birthing space on your big day, in line with your wishes;
-Birth attendance - wherever you choose to give birth to your baby;
-Practical and emotional support during labour in line with your birth wishes;
-2 hours after birth, helping with first feed, cleaning up and making sure you’re settled and comfortable;
-Support for your partner and older children, if/where appropriate.
*If you feel you would benefit from additional antenatal sessions, including hypnobirthing and anxiety breakthrough coaching to help you break free from any unwanted thoughts or behaviours, we can add in some of these too - either in person or online. I offer these sessions at a heavily discounted price for my doula clients. Please ask for more info.
PLUS...
Postpartum Care
-2 home visits during your first week postpartum - which we’ll plan for in advance; these usually last approx 2 hrs. As an example, these visits might include:
- debriefing your birth experience/generally offering a listening ear;
- basic feeding, newborn support & information;
- preparing some delicious home cooked & nourishing soup/broth and snacks;
- light housework;
- holding or wearing your baby whilst you, and your partner, rest.
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In addition, I offer all sorts of extras for you to choose from, including;
-Placenta Remedies and keepsakes -- I offer these services at heavily discounted prices for my doula clients, please ask for more info;
-Reiki, including Womb Reiki and Baby Reiki;
-“Mother Warming” using moxa/moxibustion ~ a Traditional Chinese Medicine technique using the burning of mugwort (Artemisia argyi) to stimulate acupuncture points; used to support postpartum recovery and address common issues such as urinary retention and energy restoration;
-Light Massage - especially for the hands, arms, feet, legs and belly; with essential oils;
-Sitz Bath preparation - to soothe, relax and promote healing of the perineum, by helping to increase blood flow, reduce swelling and calm inflammation;
-*Nourishing Meals & Snacks - prepared fresh/to be popped into the freezer. I simply ask to be reimbursed for the £ of ingredients.
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*Additional postpartum visits can be added - minimum 2hrs; savings can be made when booking in blocks + travel - first 5 miles included; 45p per mile thereafter.
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Payment-wise, a deposit/retainer is requested at the time of booking to confirm your booking; with the remaining balance to be settled in full by wk 38 of your pregnancy. Payment plans and voucher options are available to help spread the cost - the vouchers make for an ideal 'baby shower' gift, if anyone's asking!
Please don't hesitate to contact me if you have any questions, you'd like any further information -- or you fancy meeting for a Virtual Cuppa - I'm here for you!
Hope to chat to you soon :)
With love,
Helen x
