My fee is the same regardless of the length of your labor. Because of the nature of birth, an hourly fee would be out of reach for most couples. It balances out for me, but I can understand why someone with a shorter birth might initially feel it is unfair. I offer this information in hope that it will help explain how I, and other doulas, set a fee.

Hours - A doula is a full-time resource, providing emotional support and strength even when not physically present. There exists an atmosphere of faith and belief in the woman's ability to achieve the birth she wants that begins at the time of hire and extends past the birth itself. It's time spent gathering, compiling, and presenting information to help you make choices and understand the implications of those choices. It's time after the birth to catch up on sleep, stretch sore muscles, edit birth photos/video…….... including prenatal, birth, and postpartum, I spend an average of 25 hours with each family, not including at least a couple hours in phone calls and email. This is in addition to being on call full-time, and researching and continuing education to provide you with the best service possible. The long hours I may spend with one couple translate into increased experience and knowledge that carries over into the next, possibly shorter, birth.

Scheduling - I may turn away potential clients for the period around your due date to avoid conflicts and be reasonably rested when you need me. I will not go out of town (unless family emergency) and am available to you at all times. My family may need to take 2 cars when we go out. I must always have arrangements for my children and other responsibilities just in case.

Expenses - These include advertising, cell phone service, office supplies, photocopying, mileage & car wear, membership fees, self-employment taxes, labor support tools, food, parking, books, and continuing education.

Most doulas in this area charge anywhere from $250 to $700. The fee charged usually reflects the economy of the area as well as the doula's experience and certification status. If you feel you cannot afford my fee, please let me know BEFORE we schedule a meeting; I may be able to arrange a series of payments or perhaps a dollar-for-dollar bartering/trading of services.

The fee itself is non-negotiable, but in the spirit of encouraging doula-supported birth, I will do what I can to help you find a doula whose fees are within your financial means.

Sweet Bliss.

Healthy Mama & Baby