1.) What if we sign the contract and decide  later that we don't want to use your services? The $200 deposit will be lost. Since no other money would have been exchanged at this point, no other monies would be owed nor refunded.

2.) What if you don't make it to the birth?  If I don't make it to the birth because of my own error and a back-up is not available all money will be refunded. If I don't make it to the birth because of failure to be notified it is considered a breech of contract and no money will be refunded and all monies owed will still be due. If I am unable to make it because of a very rapid birth our contract stands as is and I will do my best to provide additional postpartum help, but again, all monies will be owed as per the contract.

3.) How do we know  you are a credible doula?  Please feel free to contact DONA or CBI for verification of certified status. I also have certificates from both organizations that can be brought upon request. References from previous clients are also available!

4.) When should we contact you about using your services? The sooner the better! A doula's calendar can be quite chaotic due to the fact that approximately 4 weeks must be set aside for on call status for each individual client. After the initial interview I allow 1 week in which I will hold the time frame open for you. If  contract has not been signed within the week the date will be open to others interested. I also cannot guarantee that I will be available if you happen to call me for the first time  a week before your guess date or when you go into labor. I plan my family outings and vacations around client guess dates and need to have advance notice and a contract signed in order to hold a space for you. I take a maximum of 4 clients per month so space is limited and depending on the month, fills up quickly. I should also note that in my close to 5 years of doula work I have yet to miss a birth....where is that large piece of wood to knock on??? ;-)

5.) Do you accept insurance? Insurance companies vary greatly and typically do not cover doula services. There are documented cases where some companies have reimbursed for services provided. I can provide you with a form to submit to your insurance company if you would like to try to file in order to get reimbursement. I personally do not file insurance claims to receive payment, instead all monies are expected as outlined in the contract.This form can also be used for flex spending accounts. This is also true for my Hypnobabies Childbirth Hypnosis classes.

6.) Why did you certify through two organizations? I certified through two organizations to become a well rounded doula. I feel that CBI gave me a large comprehensive knowledge base that helps me  inform clients of their choices. DONA has been wonderful for hands on training and comfort measures. I feel that both organizations in combination make me better able to serve you in the best way I can. 

7.)  What if I want an epidural?  The decision to have pain medication of any kind during your labor and birth is your decision. I advocate for all women to attend a Childbirth class or series apart from the hospital so they are well informed about the benefits and risks of procedures as well as what informed consent is. This will give them the knowledge base to understand what is happening with the body and allows them to choose what is going to be best for them personally and their baby! I do not condemn those that choose pain medication at all, it is a personal decision and my job as a doula is to support those decisions!

8.) Do you attend homebirths?  The answer is a resounding YES! I will attend homebirths as long as a skilled care provider is present. I attend hospital and birth center births as well! My first births as a doula happened to be homebirths!

9.) What happens if I go into labor before 38 weeks? Although my on call status does not begin until 38 weeks, I am still available to come to your birth should the unexpected happen as long as I am in town. If I happen to be out of town, my back-up doula would be called and she would attend the birth and support you as needed. If you have to remain in the hospital on bed rest, I will await your call as to when your birthing time begins again and you request my presence. This could be a matter of days, weeks or months depending on when your baby decides it's time to make their grand appearance!

This Document copyright © 2006 by Julie A. Six, All Rights Reserved