Sweet Pea in the Pod Code of Conduct
I understand there have been problems between doctors and doulas in the past- giving doulas a bad reputation. With that in mind, I would like to share some of my code of conduct that I practice at Sweet Pea in the Pod. I am there to offer my clients and their families emotional, physical and informational support. I am non confrontational with a client’s doctor or midwife; I am there to augment their doctor’s or midwife’s care. I do not make decisions, nor do I give my opinion about the choices given to my clients. I know that the educated in the birth process, they know in advance the pros and cons of many procedures. I am there to help make a nurse’s job easier. I can assist by getting my client up to go to the bathroom, change I honor my client’s privacy and their choices. I offer compassionate, nonjudgmental support to my clients. help them. I have seen many times how beneficial an epidural can be for a client who won’t progress because I am affordable. I offer payment plans to my clients. I believe that everyone should have a Doula if they want one- · What training have you had? (If a Doula is certified, you might consider checking with the organization). · Do you have one or more backup Doulas for times when you are not available? May we meet her/them? · What is your fee? What does it include, and what are your refund policies? When Interviewing a Birth Doula: · Tell me/us about your philosophy about childbirth & supporting women and their partners through labor. · May we meet to discuss our birth plans & the role you will play in supporting me/us through childbirth? · May we call you with any questions or concerns before & after the birth? · When do you try to join women in labor? Do you come to our home or meet us at the place of birth? · Do you meet with me/us after the birth to review the labor & answer questions? When Interviewing a Postpartum Doula: · Tell me about your experience as a postpartum Doula. · What is your philosophy about parenting & supporting women & their families during postpartum? · May we meet to discuss our needs & the role you will play? · What different types of services do you offer? · When you your services begin postpartum? · What is your experience in breast-feeding support? · Have you had a criminal background check, a recent TB test? Do you have current CPR certification?
doctor is making suggestions which is in the best interests of the mother and baby. Because my clients are well
chucks pads, or turn them every 20 minutes if they have received an epidural.
Should they change their mind and request pain management- I honor their choices. I believe there is a difference
between experiencing pain and suffering. Should I see my client suffering- we will gladly get a nurse to
they just can't relax.
regardless of their financial situation.
I offer discounts for women who do not have a partner or who's partner is in the military and can't be present for
the birth.
How Can a Doula Help a Woman Who Wants or Needs to Have a C-Section?
I can offer the same continuous support that I offer to our clients who have a vaginal birth. I will be with you as long as possible offering encouragement and relaxation measures such as massage and guided visualization.
In some cases I might be able to be there in the operating room if it is ok with the anesthesiologist. I can offer encouragement to both the mother and father and I can guide you through a guided visualization exercise to take your mind of the procedure if you choose.
After the baby is born, both mother and baby will have someone there to support them. I can either stay with mom in the recovery room or can travel with the baby so that they feel constant support and love during their first hours on Earth.
Questions to Ask a Prospective Doula
For any Doula:
Insurance
As more women are choosing doulas as part of the pregnancy and birth team, and more research is being done proving the benefits of Doula care, more insurance companies are covering the cost of Doula service. Many insurance providers also cover the cost of childbirth classes, whether those classes are private or in-hospital. However, insurance companies vary on if and/or how much of a Doula's services they will pay for. Many times, a "prescription for Doula Care" can influence the company to cover a Doula. All receipts you need for filing for insurance reimbursement will gladly be provided.