My Labor Services
Gentle Spirit Birth Services
There are three reasons for breast-feeding: the milk is always at the right temperature; it comes in attractive containers; and the cat can't get it.
-- Irena Chalmers
I've been a doula for 13 years, and during that time have supported women and their partners during hospital, birth center, and home births. Most of my clients seek and achieve a low-intervention, unmedicated birth, while some choose to labor with the help of an epidural. I've also supported women during cesarean births and have had the privilege of assisting with many successful VBACs (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean).
Depending on how far into the pregnancy you are, we will have two to three prenatal visits to allow us to get to know one another. At the visits I will help you identify your priorities for the birth, help you write a birth plan, and discuss any questions you may have. We will also discuss common practices & procedures you may encounter during labor and birth depending on your birth location. The visits can be at your home or another mutually agreeable location. You will also have access to any books in my childbirth and childrearing lending library.
Availability
I will be on-call for you 24/7 from two weeks prior to your estimated due date, until the birth of your baby. This means that I will carry my cell phone with me at all times during the day and night. You will be able to call whenever you feel you might be going into labor and I will come to you whenever you are ready for me.
Phone and Email Support
As soon as you hire me, I will be available by phone or email to answer questions or concerns, discuss options and provide resources for more information.
Labor and Delivery
Once you are in labor, I will provide continuous emotional and physical support to you and your partner. If desired, I will join you at your home for support during early labor. I will stay with you for approximately 1-2 hours after the birth and can provide breastfeeding assistance immediately following the birth if needed.
Postpartum
After the birth of your baby, we will schedule one or two postpartum visits to discuss your birth, any newborn or breastfeeding concerns you may have, and how you and your family are adjusting to your new life together. Postpartum doula services are also available for those who would like additional help at home during the post-partum period.
Gentle Spirit Birth Services
Celeste Kraft
Doula Services, Birth Photography,
Childbirth Classes, Lactation Education
I believe that birth is a natural, beautiful, and amazing experience. When I attend your birth I believe wholeheartedly that it is YOUR birth and YOUR experience and that my job is to support you and your partner through this experience in a loving, caring, and compassionate manner.
Birth Photography
I am available to capture this momentous occasion in photos or video (using your camera or mine) at no additional cost. I understand the importance of maintaining a peaceful birth environment, and strive to be unobtrusive and respectful of your needs and desires.
