Frequenly Asked Questions

What is Birthing From Within?

Birthing From Within is the title of a book and the name of the organization created by midwife and psychologist, Pam England.  As a Birthing From Within Mentor I have received intensive training with Pam and immersed myself in the processes.  It is not just something I have learned and now teach, but has introduced me to enriching ways of living life with awareness, compassion and honesty. 

Philosophical Assumptions and Guiding Principles of Birthing Form Within Childbirth Classes:

1. Childbirth is a profound rite of passage, not a medical event (even when medical care is part of the birth).
2. The essence of childbirth preparation is self-discovery.
3. The mentor is “midwife” to the parents’ discovery process, not the experet from whom wisdom flows.
4. Childbirth preparation is a continually evolving process (for parents and mentors), not a static structure of techniques and knowledge.
5. Parents’ individual needs and differences determine class content.
6. Active, creative self-expression is critical to childbirth preparation.
7. The purpose of childbirth preparation is to prepare mothers to give birth-in-awareness, not to achieve a specific birth outcome.
8. Pregnancy and birth outcome are influenced by a variety of factors, but can’t be controlled by planning.
9. In order to help parents mobilize their coping resources, it is critical for childbirth classes to acknowledge that unexpected, unwelcome events may happen during labor.
10. Parents deserve support for any birth option which might be right for them (whether it be drugs, technology, home birth, or bottle-feeding).
11. Pain is an inevitable part of childbirth, yet much can done to ease suffering.
12. Pain coping techniques work best when integrated into daily life, rather than “dusted off” for labor.
13. Fathers and Partners help best as birth guardians or loving partners, not as coaches: they also need support.
14. For parents, pregnancy, birth, and postpartum is a time of continuou8s learning and adjustment; holistic support and education should be available throughout that period.
15. Childbirth preparation is also parent preparation.

What is mentor?

A childbirth mentor is one who facilitates discussion and guides processes in childbirth preparation classes.  Different than a “teacher” who holds the knowledge and must instruct the student-parents, a mentor is one who creates and protects the space, allowing for preparation to be experienced as initiation and a process of each individual’s own self-discovery.

What should I expect on the first night of class?

Coming with an open mind and heart and listening to your own wisdom is what will allow you to truly make this a time of soulful preparation. During the first class there will be time to ask questions and explore what you already know about birth and what you need from our time together.  All supplies such as notebooks and art materials will be provided for you.  Beverages and light snacks are also offered, and sessions are structured in such a way as to provide needed breaks in-between processes.

Do I need to have read the Birthing From Within book to take the class?

I encourage you to read the book though it is not required.  Having read the book will give you a familiarity with some of the viewpoints and practices presented in the classes.  However, Birthing From Within is a dynamic, changing process, and what is offered in the class allows for experiences, a time to explore and discover in a multi-sensory and engaged environment. 

What if I am planning on having a cesarean?

Giving birth by cesarean is its own Rite of Passage where you enter the unknown, bringing with you great hope, doubt, determination and love.  A cesarean birth, whether planned or unplanned will ask in its own unique way what every birth asks of you: that you stay open to the moment, offer your love, embrace your whole self.  This is what it means to birth from within.  Soulful preparation is about birthing in awareness, whatever that looks like, and the process and journey of self-exploration experienced in the class series applies to all birth.

What if I don’t have a partner?

You are welcome to come on your own, or bring a family member or friend who will be joining you at the birth as a support person. Rite of Passage Childbirth Classes are not dependent on having a partner.

How do I sign up?

Please visit the contact page to call or email me.

When should I take a Childbirth Class?

I usually recommend that you be in your third trimester when taking a Rite of Passage Childbirth Preparation Class. 

How do I decide if I want you as my doula?

I recommend we meet in person first so you have the change to ask your questions and get a feel for who I am and how we might work together.  Who you choose for a doula is a very personal decision and often it comes down to a feeling of connection or bond that you sense in the interview.  If you are interested in scheduling an interview, simply call and we will set up a time to meet.  This is your time to get to know me and ask your questions.  If after meeting you would like to proceed, a Letter of Agreement is signed, a deposit paid, and I am officially hired as your doula.  We set up times to meet before your birth to explore your hopes and needs, and how I can best support you.  I am then “on call” two weeks before and two weeks following your expected date of birth, as well as available be telephone for any questions you have. 

Will my husband or partner feel left out?

A mother deserves the attention and care of a supportive birth environment.  The doula is one part of a support system and can never replace the love and care that a mother’s partner provides. 
Having a doula present can allow the partner to focus on the mother, knowing he or she is supported in their efforts.  Your doula is there for whatever you need, whether it is getting your partner a cup of coffee or breathing with you through contractions.  The doula can give your birth partner helpful ideas about offering encouragement, relaxation techniques, and pain relief.  She can help calm anxiety by explaining different medical procedures and assuring normalcy. 
Together, the doula and partner come beside the mother to offer full and focused presence, that she might be seen and well held during her rite of passage.

Does a doula make decisions on my behalf?

A doula does not make decisions for clients or intervene in their clinical care. She provides informational and emotional support, respecting a woman’s decisions and wisdom.

How does a doula interact with hospital staff?
A doula is trained to work with your medical care providers to give you a safe and satisfying birth experience.
Her role is to help you more effectively communicate with your care-givers but she does not make decisions for you or speak on your behalf.

How far along should I be before contacting a Doula?
The sooner the better, but generally anywhere from 6 - 9 months pregnant. The more time you have to spend getting to know your doula prior to birth, the better for both the mom and doula.