What is a Naturopathic Doctor?

A Naturopathic Doula is a Licensed Naturopathic Doctor with additional training in labour and birth management and assists/supports women during pregnancy, labour, birth and post-partum. As Naturopathic Doulas, we combine Doula services with Naturopathic protocols to assist before, during and after labour. We discuss nutrition, supplementation, and do regular medical check-ups. Pain management therapies used include traditional doula approaches such as massage and hands on therapy and naturopathic approaches including homeopathy, acupressure/acupuncture, and hydrotherapy. Naturopaths are trained in the use of homeopathic remedies, acupuncture and can provide supplementation and clinical nutrition advice. With a Naturopathic Doula, you can feel safe in the hands of a healthcare professional with the knowledge of the inner working of the human body and the natural physiology of birth. In addition, we can address various prenatal and postnatal health concerns such as Yeast Infections or UTIs, Group B Strep, Gestational Diabetes, Low milk supply, and more.

Do doulas work with OBs and Midwives?

Yes. We have excellent working relationships with General Pracititioners, Obsetetricians, Pediatricians, Nurses and Midwives. The support is always welcomed and brings about better birth outcomes.

What can a doula do for me?

The real question is, what CAN’T a doula do for you? Research shows that labour which is supported has incremental advantages, including shorter labour time and hospital stays, reduced Cesarean rate, and a reduced risk of using unnecessary interventions. With a doula present, you can be sure that you have someone you know with you through your ENTIRE labour. We guide you through creating and supporting your birth preferences (ie. plan) and will advocate for you to ensure a smooth follow through of your birth preferences at your birth. We will explain medical terminology, & present pros and cons to each situation so that you can make an informed choice.

What are my pain relief options if I want to avoid epidural?

Great question. Our doulas can teach you alternative techniques to avoid pain medications if natural birth is important to you. These methods may include breathing techniques, positional changes, affirmations, birthing balls, massage, and the use of hydrotherapy. If your doula is a Naturopath, she can bring extra tools with her such as:

Homeopathy - many remedies are used throughout your labour to prevent specific issues, progress stalled or slow labour, turn a malpositioned baby, reduce anxiety and fears, boost energy and more.

Botanical Herbs - herbal remedies are rarely used during the labour itself, but are fantastic before labour to prep your uterus

Acupressure/Acupuncture - acupressure and acupuncture are fantastic for progressing labour, turning malpositioned babies, reducing back labour, bringing the baby further down into the pelvis, and managing discomfort through labour. It is also use for retained placenta and other issues that may come up during childbirth

Hydrotherapy – the use of cold/hot water to support proper fetal position and to assist with comfort. Hot/Cold compresses, shower and water submersion (bathtub) are frequently used during labour and childbirth.

Aromatherapy - we use a variety of essential oils to relax and support the labour process

Will my partner feel left out?

Absolutely not. We are here to support your partner as well and actually encourage him/her to be as involved as they want to be. We ensure that your partner is emotionally supported, as well as taking their breaks (ie. eating, drinking, and resting), while also giving them tips and tricks to help you. Most partners are happy to know that their mama-to-be is in good hands, and happy to have the pressure taken off them. We are happy to offer suggestions to help guide your birthing partner through the birthing process and boost their confidence. We work together as a team to support you and bring about the most positive experience possible.

Are you covered by insurance?

As a government regulated profession, Naturopathic Doula Services are covered under most Extended Healthcare Benefit Plans.* Even our doulas who are not Naturopaths may be able to get their services covered for you. Ask within.

What happens in the event of a Cesarean or complications?

Even though we always have Birth Preferences/Plans in mind, of course we know that there is room for unexpected shifts or changes. Birth can be unpredictable, but we are here to tell you that it’s okay. We still support you through Cesarean births and any complications that arise. We will, in fact, present you with all of your alternative options & explain benefits and risks to any intervention, so that you can make the best decision possible for you and your baby. We will ensure you are properly prepared for a Cesarean if it is planned, and guide you on a miraculous healing journey after the surgery to ensure quick and effortless healing.

What if I choose to have the epidural?

We support whatever your birth preferences are, without judgement. We will however encourage you to explore your decisions knowing the advantages and risks associated with interventions so that you can make the best decision possible.

Can we meet the doula first, before committing?

We value the relationship we create with our clients, and understand that one must feel comfortable with their support team. Your doula must be someone that you can trust, lean on, laugh, be vulnerable and cry with. Therefore, we offer a 15-30 minute no obligation meet and greet with our doulas so that you can feel confident in us and your relationship before moving forward.

What should I do in preparation for my first consult?

Just bring yourself and your loving spirit into our first meeting. We offer a very comfortable, relaxing space for you to kick off your shoes, and have a good ol’ down to earth talk with us. We do encourage your partner to join us!

For those booking with Naturopaths: It would be beneficial for us to also take a look at your prenatal bloodwork. If you can have copies of those on hand, that is a bonus.