Thanks Leanne !!

Thanks for all the great info ladies!

thank you so much for this thread!! i have learned ALOT and I will start on this very soon. Great information to have for a new doula!

I'm starting to work on my binder, and I'm wondering if you print most of your information from online sources etc. or do you also type up handouts and information for your binder yourself?

The reason why I was asking this is because I'm wondering about the impression clients might have if there is a bunch of stuff that has been printed online (like articles or from other doulas/midwifes etc)....I have started putting together a binder with lots of great info but I don't want to leave a bad impression as most of it is not mine....KWIM?

So this "handouts and visit outline" will go with me to the consult/interview along with the consult handouts, the client retention forms if they want to contract that day, and the informational binder again for if they contract that day.

Let me say this... I have not had my first client. I am going to my workshop in Sept and trying to cultivate clients now. I am an organization kinda girl. I like to have things in their place. If you see anything that you would change please feel free to critique. I know I have some information missing like breastfeeding in the binder. I am still looking for the right informational insert. I am finding many things I like and making my own forms from two or three sources then just citing sources. My birth ball informational and position paper is one that I really like how it turned out combined from several sources. I will freely share if anyone wants to see something. I am still working on birth plan forms as well getting them combined to one that suits me.



The Divine Doula
Handouts And Visit Outline


The following handouts are provided at the initial consultation:

Example of Doula Support
Doula FAQ's
Doula Fees Explained
Contract Services Agreement (2 copies)
Client Profile (return with contract)
Waiver of Liability

The following forms and an informational binder (for loan) will be provided upon return of signed contract, waiver of liability and deposit.

(These will need to be completed for your first prenatal visit)
Photo Release
Relaxation Questionnaire
Birth Plan Information Questionnaire
Safe Place Questionnaire
Previous Birth Form

The informational (loaner) binder which can be purchased for 10.00 will contain the following and any additions I have made: (you are free to make copies from this binder)

When to call your Doula
Birth Ball Informational and Instruction
Health Food and Supplement Choices
Choosing a pediatrician
VBAC Risks and Benefits
Avoiding Episiotomy
Perineal massage
Epidural Information
Transition and the Epidural
Prep List
Packing List
Natural Induction Methods
Signs of Labor
Spontaneous Release of Membranes
Timing Contractions
Questions for your Dr
Baby Massage
Circumcision
Tips for the partner
Training Dog for Baby
Relaxation CD with instructions
Journaling
Good Reads List
Local and National Resource List (also found on the website)

The first Prenatal Visit can vary but likely include:

Review of forms
Starting a Birth Plan
Birth Ball
Relaxation
Light Massage
Questions about informational binder handouts

The second Prenatal Visit can vary but will likely include:

Finalization of the birth plan. (A copy will be emailed for your records and for Dr Signature.)
Birth Ball Position Practice
Relaxation Practice
Light Massage
I will ask you about fears and questions you may be having and help you to put them to rest.

The third and final Prenatal Visit can vary but will likely include:

Signs of Labor Review
Stages of labor, explanation and practice (Birth Ball positions and Relaxation)
Birth plan review
Light Massage
Visit to Dr if desired to allow us to all meet and become familiar with each other and allow me to understand the Dr's practice and support of your choices.
Payment

Labor and Delivery

Review Form: When to Call Your Doula
Once early labor has turned into active labor I will stay with you until delivery (per the contract)
Birth Ball
Relaxation
Massage
Comfort and support measures as desired

Postpartum Visit can vary but will likely include:

Admiration of your baby
Praise of your accomplishment
Written accounting of your labor (if requested)
Review of my performance
Final Payment

I would strongly encourage you to get your final payment for doulas services by 36-38wks. I dont go on call until I've recieved all of my payment.

I don't use binders but, I make a new CD with hadnout information for each client. I got 200 cds off Ebay for 20 dollars, so 10 cents a cd. I also picked up 50 sleeves for 2.00 with shipping. It is low cost, saves trees, and I don't have to worry about getting them back. I give out the same information to all clients.

Where on the website is the handouts section? I can't find it...Its probably somewhere completely obvious but for whatever reason I don't see it.

Never mind...I found it. Thanks, again!

Thanks for all the helpful tips!

~Krista Wampler

Journey Birth Support - Home

thanks for all the awesome info!

Divine Doula would you be willing to share or email me your forms? I love how you have them categorized. I too am just starting out and am looking for some good handouts/organization.

excellent resources. thank you ladies. I too am in the process of putting all of my info. into one location. I have bits and pieces all over and it is driving me crazy. As I go through my info. I will be happy to send out what I have as well. I love that we are able to share so much with each other.

Started working on my binder, trying to get it in order for a prenatal visit I am doing on Friday! Came across some sights that I thought might be helpful to some of you:

Breastfeeding Information (breastfeeding everything from Dr. Newman)
The Smiling Mask : The Smiling Mask (postpartum depression)
Resources and Links | Saskatchewan Prevention Institute (brochures in pdf's on a variety of things)
Best Start - Resources (also great pdf's on a variety of things)
Free Handouts | THE BIRTH FACTS

Enjoy!