What Does it Mean When Your Birth Doula is “On-Call”?
You’ve hired your Birth Doula (maybe it’s me!) and you’re excited to plan for your upcoming birth and early postpartum.
One of the most common questions I get in my consults and prenatal visits is: “What does it mean when you’re ‘on-call’ for us?”
Let’s break it down!
Available 24/7 from 38 weeks until baby arrives
This means that I can be reached anytime, day or night, from 38 weeks on, to help answer your questions, validate your feelings, and for labour updates.
I always ask clients to text me with non-urgent labour updates and questions, and to call me with urgent updates. I’m able to check in with how you’re doing, offer suggestions as needed, and plan together when to join you.
Once your contractions have established a pattern, things are feeling intense, and you’re ready for me to join you - call me, and I’ll meet you at your home or the hospital!
I don’t travel more than an hour outside of town
Babies like to keep their own schedules, and not all labours look the same. This means that if your labour progresses quickly, I’m never very far away and can join you as soon as possible.
I keep my phone charged, close, and volume WAY up
I sleep with my phone right next to me, and check my volume (more than a few times!) before going to bed.
Special shoutout to the “emergency bypass” function on phones! This ensures that my on-call clients’ notifications come through overnight so I don’t miss your call.
I keep my monthly client load at a manageable cap
I keep the number of birth clients I support monthly to typically 2-3 max, and my postpartum clients to 4 max. This helps to ensure I’m not working myself to exhaustion, and that I can make space in my schedule to rest and recover between clients.
I take extra good care of myself
Doubling down on my self care is key during my on-call time. Over the years, I’ve learned A LOT about what works for me - and what doesn’t! Shifting my focus more inward when I’m on-call and being very intentional with how I focus my energy, and what I need to replenish it.
Some ways that I prioritize this are:
Not over-scheduling my calendar (professionally and personally)
Being diligent about my sleep
Having leftovers and snacks handy for when it’s go time
My birth bag and clothes are packed and ready
Having a trusted backup doula in place whenever possible
Having a birth doula can give you peace of mind knowing you’ll have your trusted support throughout your pregnancy and birth. Walking alongside you for the twists and turns, and ways that birth will unfold.
A constant presence who’s here with you and for you.
Sound incredible? Book a free virtual consult and let’s connect.
