gentle journeys

DOULA SERVICES

Michelle Ellinger
Birth and Postpartum Doula
Madison, WI

ph: (608) 577-8611

Birth Philosophy

I believe that "knowledge is power," and have a strong belief in evidence based medicine. I encourage you to explore your options- who you choose as your care provider, where you give birth, and what choices you have along the way.

A positive birth experience can be so empowering, and I believe it carries over into parenthood. I believe the confidence one achieves by birthing on their terms with people they trust can be one of the most profound experiences of their life. I am honored to be a part of that.
I provide support through the whole experience, from baby in the belly to baby at the breast. My work is not done when your baby is here!

 

Birth Services Include:

  • One free 45 min meeting to get to know each other and decide if we are a good “fit."
  • Non-judgemental support during pregnancy, labor, birth, and immediate postpartum.
  • Two prenatal visits, aiming both to develop a relationship as well as explore your choices and your needs.
  • Help writing a birth plan if you wish
  • Prenatal phone and email support for questions and concerns
  • On call 24 hours a day for you from 37th  week of pregnancy on.
  • Continuous labor support
  • Back up doula, if needed (rare!)
  • Sibling support, if discussed prior to your birth.
  • Immediate postpartum support, and initial breastfeeding
  • Two postpartum "check in" visits, at about 24 hours and one at 2- 3 weeks postpartum.
  • Phone and email support in the first weeks of parenthood.
  • Lactation support and referrals
  • A second doula (in training) if desired.

Labor support includes:

  • Emotional, physical and informational support at home or hospital
  • Support at home in early labor
  • Position suggestions
  • Relaxation techniques
  • Support for your partner and/or others attending the birth
  • Taking photos if you would like
  • Working in a respectful manner with your care provider and other medical staff

A few things doulas do NOT do:

  • Perform medical tasks (vaginal exams, blood pressure, etc) or give medical advice
  • Make decisions for you
  • Speak for you. I encourage you to speak for yourself.

Fees

The total fee for birth services is $600.

I am willing to work out alternate payment plans and low cost services for those in need, as my schedule allows. If you would like a doula, but do not think you can afford one, please consider Small Miracles, Madison's volunteer doula program.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Copyright  Michelle Ellinger. All rights reserved.

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Michelle Ellinger
Birth and Postpartum Doula
Madison, WI

ph: (608) 577-8611