FAQ

A trained professional who provides continuous physical, emotional, and informational support to a mother before, during, and shortly after childbirth. Like travel guides in a foreign country, birth and postpartum doulas help families through the life-changing experience of having a baby.

An NCS is primarily focused on the baby — routines, feeding schedules, swaddling, bathing. A postpartum doula is focused on the whole family, especially the mother: healing, mental health, meals, siblings, and rest. Some families use both.

Published Doulagy shift plans are $520 / 8 hours, $650 / 10 hours, and $780 / 12-hour overnight — $65 an hour. Sheila has also written that Texas-area postpartum rates often range $25–$45/hour with weekly packages from $1,500–$3,500 depending on the doula and intensity. We will be clear about which rate applies to your plan. Sliding scale and payment plans when possible. Doula care also makes a meaningful baby-shower gift.

Yes. After we meet and agree we are a fit, you receive a contract. A retainer of about 20–30% holds the dates. The remaining balance is typically due at 36 weeks or when service starts. Payment plans may be available; the retainer itself is what reserves the calendar.

As soon as you come home. The first 24–72 hours are when milk comes in, emotions are raw, and support matters most. Many families then continue for 2–4 weeks; some need a month of near-daily care after cesarean birth, multiples, or a thin support system.

Yes. Ask for the certifying organization and expiration date during your Dialogue. Families should expect infant CPR from anyone invited into the home in this season.

Often yes, with advance planning: dates, private rest space, hours, travel fees, and scope. Continuity of care does not pause because you changed zip codes.

Yes. Education is woven into every visit: cues, safe sleep, bathing, recovery signs, feeding. The goal is that you feel capable when the hours taper, not abandoned.