Frequently asked questions

The word ‘doula’ comes from Ancient Greek and means ‘a woman who serves’. A doula is an addition to your birth team and provides continuous emotional, physical and practical support to you and your partner throughout the entire labour process. She got to know your wishes, strengths and fears in the meetings during pregnancy. She knows how you want to be approached during the birth process and what you need to feel supported. A doula is not a substitute for your partner and medical care providers such as the obstetrician, gynaecologist or nurse. What makes a doula unique is the time and continuous attention she has for you (and your partner), in combination with the personal bond that has been built up during the pregnancy.

If you ask me, everybody deserves a doula. A familiar face who has full attention to your experience of the birth process. Childbirth is not just the birth of your baby, but an event that you will remember for the rest of your life. A pleasant experience has a major impact on your life. Medical care in the Netherlands is mainly focused on the health and safety of mother and child. You need a doula for emotional support, help with natural pain relief and practical support.

Yes, that’s possible. As long as I’m available I’ll do my best to meet your wishes. We will schedule meetings to get to know each other and to go over your emotional support plan (birth plan).

As a certified massage therapist I always take an anamnesis to determine what can and cannot be done during the massage. In certain situations it will be necessary to adjust the massage routine. Specific pressure points that can induce labor will not be stimulated until the due date. If you want to induce labor by that time, these points will be stimulated even more. Heat pads are best avoided during the first trimester, as they release waste products that can end up in the uterus.

Baby massage is possible from birth, but is more of a stroking movement without pressure. Loving touch helps the development of your baby on a psychological and physical level. Shantala baby massage is possible from about 4 – 6 weeks. When you start baby massage early, your baby will get used to it and even enjoy this relaxing moment until after the crawling phase.

I travel by bike or public transport and want to be able to guarantee that I’m at your home within an hour when labour starts. In emergency situations I can take a taxi.

I prefer to be at your birth myself, but sometimes there are unforeseen circumstances. I have a network of doula colleagues who are available as a backup. They will be updated on your wishes regarding the birth of your child. It is possible to get acquainted so that you always have a familiar face.

In most cases doula care is not covered by your health insurance unfortunately. Check with your health insurance to find out what’s possible.

As a doula, I do not interfere with the medical process. I show respect for everyone I work with and have an open and relaxed attitude. As a result, my presence is appreciated by the hospital staff. If medical matters are unclear, I will encourage you to ask questions.