Brooke Sternberg
Category
Birth & Postpartum Doula
Average star rating
5.0
Experience
6 years
Brooke Sternberg
Birth & Postpartum Doula
6 years of experience
5.0
Palm Beach, Florida
Brooke Sternberg
Birth & Postpartum Doula
Palm Beach, Florida
6 years of experience
5.0
About me
Our focus at Aspired Mother is to minimize discomfort, discontent, and disease for you and the little one growing in your womb. We take a well-rounded holistic approach that weaves together the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda with modern evidence-based research on the physiology of childbirth and postpartum recovery. As doulas in South Florida, we offer practical information, emotional support, and hands-on help. Whether you're in Palm Beach County or Broward County, we provide comprehensive care tailored to your needs. Our services include prenatal education and planning, continuous labor support, in-home postpartum recovery care, reiki practitioner training, and rite of passage ceremonial services for mothers.
Education
Bachelors of Fine Arts in Interior Design (2005)
Certification and training
Birth Doula (DONA) (2019)
Ayurvedic Postpartum Specialist (2020)
Birthing From Within Childbirth Educator (2021)
Body Ready Method Practitioner (2025)
Transitional Life Coaching (2014)
Essential Oil Specialist (2014)
Reiki Practitioner (Level I) (2015)
Reiki Practitioner (Level II & III) (2016)
Reiki Master Teacher (2017)
VBAC Doula (2024)
Memberships and affiliations
Doulas Care Collective
Credentials
CD (DONA)
CLC
RMT
Specialties
Acupressure During Labor
Advanced Maternal Age
Anxiety
Aromatherapy
Attachment problems
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Belly Binding
Birth and Lactation
Birth Doula
Birth Support
Birth Trauma
Birth Videography
Bodywork
Breastfeeding Assistance and Support
Breastfeeding Photography
Building Healthy Communication
Career Counseling
Childbirth Education
Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
Emotional Transformation Therapy
Evidence-Based Care
Exclusive Pumping/Bottle Feeding
Herbal Postpartum Care
High-Risk Pregnancy
Home Birth
Hospital Birth
Labor Doula
Life Transitions
Loss and Bereavement Doula
Mindfulness
Motivational Interviewing
Natural Birth
Natural Childbirth
Newborn Prep
Nutritional Counseling
Perinatal and Infant Loss
Positive Thinking
Postpartum Adjustment
Postpartum Care
Postpartum Chef
Postpartum Doula Care
Postpartum Life
Pregnancy Loss
Prenatal Care
Prenatal Life
Regulation Problems
Relaxation Techniques
Self-Esteem
Solution Focused Therapy
Somatic Techniques
Spirituality
Stress Management
Support during Labor, Birth, and Postpartum
Support in Pregnancy Loss
Telehealth
Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC)
Vaginal Steam
Water birth
Languages
English
Service introduction
At Aspired Mother, we celebrate the art of becoming a mother. It is a journey like no other. We provide personalized doula services to support you through every stage of your journey. Our offerings include prenatal planning to prepare for childbirth, labor support for comfort and guidance, Mother Blessing ceremonies to celebrate your transition into motherhood, and daytime (only) postpartum care to aid in YOUR recovery and adjustment. Let us nurture and empower you during this transformative time.
Packages
POSTPARTUM PLANNING SESSION
Want to have a clear plan for your first 40 days "Laying-In" period or also known as the sacred window? You will be provided with personalized guidance and support as you prepare for the postpartum period. During this one-on-one session, we'll craft up a personalized care plan by assessing your unique constitution, discuss any concerns or challenges you may be facing, and offer tailored Ayurvedic recommendations to promote a healthy recovery and holistic well-being.
Duration: Up to 4 hours
$225.00
USD Flat rate
PARTNER CENTERED-PRACTICE | Empowering Your Birth Team
Bring your partner into the birthing journey with this dynamic, skills-focused session. Together, we’ll dive into hands-on comfort techniques designed to ease every stage of labor, from early surges to the final pushes. Learn practical strategies to:
- Soothe back labor and reduce discomfort naturally.
- Provide effective comfort measures for every phase of labor.
- Create a stronger connection and confidence between you and your partner as a birth team.
This session equips your partner with the tools and knowledge to be your rock during labor, transforming them into a steady, supportive presence when it matters most.
Let’s empower your birth team together!
$175.00
USD Flat rate
ENVISION YOUR BIRTH | Prepare with Confidence
Step into your birthing experience with knowledge, skills, and a clear vision for the journey ahead. This comprehensive session is designed to empower you and your partner with practical tools, relaxation techniques, and postpartum planning, including:
- An overview of labor stages and phases, so you know what to expect.
- A breakdown of common interventions, why they’re used, and how to make informed choices.
- Hands-on practice of comfort measures to ease labor and manage challenges like back labor.
- Simple but effective relaxation and breathing techniques to calm your mind and stay centered through every stage of labor.
- A guided birth plan exercise to help you prioritize what matters most, creating a roadmap for your ideal birth experience.
- An introduction to postpartum preparation, covering recovery essentials, emotional well-being, and building your support system for the "fourth trimester."
Whether you're planning a hospital birth or exploring other options, this session will leave you feeling prepared, informed, and ready to welcome your baby with confidence. Let’s make your vision a reality, together!
$300.00
USD Flat rate
Show all packages
POSTPARTUM PLANNING SESSION
Want to have a clear plan for your first 40 days "Laying-In" period or also known as the sacred window? You will be provided with personalized guidance and support as you prepare for the postpartum period. During this one-on-one session, we'll craft up a personalized care plan by assessing your unique constitution, discuss any concerns or challenges you may be facing, and offer tailored Ayurvedic recommendations to promote a healthy recovery and holistic well-being.
Duration: Up to 4 hours
$225.00
USD Flat rate
PARTNER CENTERED-PRACTICE | Empowering Your Birth Team
Bring your partner into the birthing journey with this dynamic, skills-focused session. Together, we’ll dive into hands-on comfort techniques designed to ease every stage of labor, from early surges to the final pushes. Learn practical strategies to:
- Soothe back labor and reduce discomfort naturally.
- Provide effective comfort measures for every phase of labor.
- Create a stronger connection and confidence between you and your partner as a birth team.
This session equips your partner with the tools and knowledge to be your rock during labor, transforming them into a steady, supportive presence when it matters most.
Let’s empower your birth team together!
$175.00
USD Flat rate
ENVISION YOUR BIRTH | Prepare with Confidence
Step into your birthing experience with knowledge, skills, and a clear vision for the journey ahead. This comprehensive session is designed to empower you and your partner with practical tools, relaxation techniques, and postpartum planning, including:
- An overview of labor stages and phases, so you know what to expect.
- A breakdown of common interventions, why they’re used, and how to make informed choices.
- Hands-on practice of comfort measures to ease labor and manage challenges like back labor.
- Simple but effective relaxation and breathing techniques to calm your mind and stay centered through every stage of labor.
- A guided birth plan exercise to help you prioritize what matters most, creating a roadmap for your ideal birth experience.
- An introduction to postpartum preparation, covering recovery essentials, emotional well-being, and building your support system for the "fourth trimester."
Whether you're planning a hospital birth or exploring other options, this session will leave you feeling prepared, informed, and ready to welcome your baby with confidence. Let’s make your vision a reality, together!
$300.00
USD Flat rate
FEARLESS BIRTH INTENSIVE | Own Your Birth Journey
Prepare to embrace your birthing journey with courage, clarity, and practical tools in this empowering, in-depth session. Whether you're a first-time parent or looking for a refresher, this intensive will help you feel calm, confident, and prepared for labor. In this session, you will:
- Master effective relaxation techniques to stay calm and focused during every stage of labor.
- Learn about the six ways labor progresses, with a clear understanding of the stages and phases of labor.
- Explore proven techniques to prevent and manage labor challenges, including strategies for back labor.
- Practice hands-on coping and comfort measures that keep you centered and supported throughout labor.
- Understand common medical interventions and pain relief options, empowering you to make informed, confident decisions.
- Develop a birth mantra and mindset shifts to help you focus on your strength and resilience during labor.
By the end of this intensive, you and your partner will be equipped with knowledge, skills, and a positive mindset to approach birth fearlessly and joyfully. Let’s help you step into your power and welcome your baby with confidence!
$425.00
USD Flat rate
EMBRACE Labor Package
This package is designed to offer foundational support with flexibility, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a balanced, comforting experience during pregnancy, labor, and the early postpartum period.
This package includes:
- Unlimited phone/text support during business hours
- 24/7 On-call period from 38 weeks to 42 weeks gestation
- Access to Exclusive Birth Prep Roadmap & Local Provider Directory
PRENATAL CONSULTATIONS
- 2 in-home visits to review your birth preferences.
- Prenatal Body Balancing Exercises to enhance physical and emotional readiness for labor.
LABOR SUPPORT
- In-Person Support starting in Active Labor (6cm) and continuing for 2 hours after birth, ensuring you feel supported every step of the way.
- Comfort Measures: Access to TensUnit, aromatherapy, birth sling, birth & peanut balls, massage, acupressure, hydrotherapy, and energy work to optimize comfort during labor.
- Birth Photography & Videography: Captured moments during labor, as permitted, to preserve memories of your birth journey.
POSTPARTUM FOLLOW-UP
- Virtual Postpartum Visit within the first 6 weeks to reflect on your birth experience and offer continued support and resources.
$2,100.00
USD Flat rate
ARISE Postpartum Package
Is your goal this time around to carve more time in your day towards your own needs and self-care? This package is designed for the discerning mama who already appreciates the importance of self-care during the sacred postpartum period but seeks elevated, comprehensive support to enhance her postpartum journey.
This package includes:
- Unlimited phone/email support throughout contracted time (for you and your caregiver)
- Access to Exclusive Client Resources, 40-Day Postpartum Recipes, and Self Care & Lactation Resources
PREPARATION
- Ayurvedic Postpartum Assessment
- Postpartum Planning Session (virtual if timing is limited)
HANDS-ON SUPPORT & CARE
- Newborn care while you rest, shower and eat
- Basic newborn feeding support
- Babywearing (it takes practice and some extra hands at first)
- Gentle household organization (tidying, dish and bottle washing, unpacking grocery delivery, restocking feeding + changing stations, newborn laundry, trash)
- Assistance for entire household with adjustment to new roles
- Support with Bengkung Belly Binding (includes balm & wrap)
- Mama Abhyanga Oil Massage & Marma Therapy
- Baby Abhyanga Oil Massage (instructional)
- Yoni Swedana (herbal steam to repair vagina & uterus tissue)
- Meal preparation - breakfasts, mid-morning snacks, lunches, mid-day snacks, and/or dinners.
- Weekly batch of our artisan Lactation Cookies (based on dietary restrictions)
Duration: Up to 5 hours/ session. 12 sessions within to the 40 days after birth.
$3,500.00
USD Flat rate
EMPOWER Labor Package
This package is designed for "High-Risk" mamas who want a deeper level of support during labor and a nurturing, informed approach to the postpartum period, including nutritional support and lactation guidance.
This package includes:
- Unlimited phone/text support during business hours
- 24/7 On-call period from 38 weeks to 42 weeks gestation
- Access to Exclusive Birth Prep Roadmap & Local Provider Directory
PRENATAL CONSULTATIONS
- 2 in-home visits to rehearse labor and review birth preferences, with an emphasis on partner involvement and preparation.
- Prenatal Body Balancing Exercises to enhance physical and emotional preparedness for labor.
- 37/38 Week Provider Visit to review your birth preferences and discuss any possible changes in plan due to potential risks.
LABOR SUPPORT
- In-Person Support from early labor until 2 hours after birth, ensuring you have continuous care and attention throughout.
- Comfort Measures: Access to TensUnit, aromatherapy, birth sling, peanut ball, massage, acupressure, and energy work to support your comfort during labor.
- Birth Space Decoration: Assistance in creating a calming, zen-like environment with lights, flowers, affirmation cards, and other elements to set the mood for your birth.
- Birth Photography & Videography: Captured moments, as desired, to preserve the memories of your birth experience.
POSTPARTUM CARE VISIT
- Hospital Visit within the first 48 hours should there be a reason baby needs to stay in NICU.
- In-home visit within the first week to reflect on your birth experience, troubleshoot newborn feeding challenges, and offer continued care and resources.
- Postpartum Care Package including soothing tea and either a batch of my signature artisan Lactation Cookies or meal to nourish you during your recovery.
- Virtual Visit within the first 6 weeks to reflect on your birth experience and offer continued support and resources.
ADDITIONAL SUPPORT
- Miscarriage/Neonatal Loss Support: Providing care and comfort during difficult times.
- NICU Support: Available for families navigating a NICU stay, offering guidance and emotional support.
$2,500.00
USD Flat rate
REBUILDING PRANA SESSION
The Rebuilding Prana Energy Session offers a holistic approach to wellness, introducing you to gentle practices that rebuild and sustain Prana (life force) energy. Whether you're a new mother, someone seeking stress relief, or simply looking to enhance your overall vitality and well-being, this session provides a nurturing environment to support your journey towards balance, vitality, and inner peace. Join us and rediscover the transformative power of Prana in your life!
DURATION: Up to 90 minutes
$125.00
USD Flat rate
LOW-KEY MOTHER BLESSING CEREMONY
Our Low-Key Mother Blessing Ceremony offers a heartfelt and intimate experience to honor the expectant mother. This is ideal for expectant mothers who want a meaningful and personalized ceremony with close friends and family.
This package includes:
- Consultation: A 30-minute consultation to understand your preferences, traditions, and wishes for the ceremony.
- Invitation Design: Custom digital invitations for your guests.
- Ceremony Rituals: A selection of meaningful rituals to celebrate motherhood, such as belly painting, blessing beads ceremony, and guided meditation.
- Decor: Simple yet elegant decor setup to create a warm and inviting ambiance.
- Keepsake: A small personalized keepsake for the expectant mother.
Duration: Up to 2 hours.
$350.00
USD Flat rate
EMBODY Labor Package
This package is the ultimate experience for the Mother-to-Be who is up for the challenge of natural birth and knows that her recovery is just as important as her preparation, so a taste of the postpartum experience is what she'd like.
This package includes:
- Unlimited phone/text support during business hours
- 24/7 On-call period from 38 weeks to 42 weeks gestation
- Access to Exclusive Birth Prep Roadmap & Local Provider Directory
PRENATAL PREPARATION
- 4 Prenatal Visits to discuss labor and birth preferences, with an emphasis on partner involvement and preparation.
- Support in deciding labor, birth and postpartum preferences and figuring out your support team
- Prenatal Body Balancing Exercises to enhance physical and emotional preparedness for labor.
- 37/38 Week Provider Visit to review your birth preferences, offer current evidence/research should your provider not fully support your birth preferences.
- Lactation Prep - set up feeding stations, Colostrum collection, and review nutrition for a positive first few weeks.
LABOR SUPPORT
- In-Person Support from early labor up to 4 hours after birth, ensuring you have continuous care and attention throughout.
- Comfort Measures: Access to TensUnit, aromatherapy, birth sling, peanut ball, massage, acupressure, and energy work to support your comfort during labor.
- Birth Space Decoration: Assistance in creating a calming, zen-like environment with lights, flowers, affirmation cards, and other elements to set the mood for your birth.
- Birth Photography & Videography: Captured moments, as desired, to preserve the memories of your birth experience.
POSTPARTUM CARE
- Hospital Visit within the first 48 hours should there be a reason baby needs to stay in NICU.
- 2 In-home visits within the first 2 weeks to reflect on your birth experience, troubleshoot newborn feeding challenges, and offer continued care and resources.
- Postpartum Care Package including soothing tea, a batch of my signature artisan Lactation Cookies and a nourishing meal to nourish you during your recovery.
- Virtual Visit within the first 6 weeks to reflect on your birth experience and offer continued support and resources.
ADDITIONAL SUPPORT
- Miscarriage/Neonatal Loss Support: Providing care and comfort during difficult times.
- NICU Support: Available for families navigating a NICU stay, offering guidance and emotional support.
$3,000.00
USD Flat rate
ALIGN Postpartum Package
You’ve got a wonderful support system who are ready to step in and help, but you want to make sure that they really know how best to support YOU throughout the first 40 days. This package is for those that know having my guidance in that first week would help prepare caregivers for the remainder of your sacred window.
This package includes:
- Unlimited phone/email support throughout contracted time (for you and your caregiver)
- Access to Exclusive Client Resources, 40-Day Postpartum Recipes, and Self Care & Lactation Resources
PREPARATION
- Ayurvedic Postpartum Assessment
- Postpartum Planning Session (virtual if caregiver isn't local)
HANDS-ON SUPPORT & CARE
- Basic Lactation Support
- Assistance for entire household with adjustment to new roles
- Bengkung Belly Binding (includes balm & wrap)
- Mama Abhyanga Oil Massage & Marma Therapy (instructional)
- Baby Abhyanga Massage (instructional)
- Yoni Swedana (herbal steam to repair vagina & uterus tissue)
- Postpartum Care Package with a personalized selection of herbal teas, nourishing soups/snacks that are for your postpartum body
- a batch of our well-known artisan Lactation Cookies
Duration: Up to 5 hours/ session. 4 sessions within first week home with baby.
$2,300.00
USD Flat rate
ANCHOR Postpartum Package
Feeling exhausted from overnight shifts? What would having 4 to 6 extra hours of rest do for you and your partner? I will come to your home in the early morning hours to help with newborn care and feeding, daily meal preparation, and light household organization while you rest.
This package includes:
- Unlimited phone/email support throughout contracted time
HANDS-ON SUPPORT & CARE
- Newborn care while you rest
- Basic newborn feeding support
- Babywearing (it takes practice and some extra hands at first)
- Gentle household organization (tidying, dish and bottle washing, unpacking grocery delivery, restocking feeding + changing stations, newborn laundry, trash)
- Assistance for entire household with adjustment to new roles
- Freshly prepared meal based on agreed upon menu (1 meal per day)
- Each session with be determined based on the needs of your home and family that morning.
** Ayurvedic self care services are not included. **
Duration: up to 5 hours
$225.00
USD Flat rate
CLOSING OF THE BONE CEREMONY
Many women find that when they have given birth they feel ‘broken open’. The body, mind and spirit have to open and let go from a deep place to bring a new soul into the world. We open ourselves to the most dramatic life experience and sometimes traumatic experience.
The Postpartum Closing of the Bone Ceremony is a time-honored tradition that encapsulates the essence of restoration and renewal. Rooted in tradition and designed to support your postpartum recovery, this ancient ritual offers a sacred space for healing, connection, and envelops you in a cocoon of care and rejuvenation. Your body, mind, and spirit have undergone an incredible transformation, and this ceremony is a beautiful way to honor and celebrate your unique journey into motherhood.
Duration: Up to 4 hours
$350.00
USD Flat rate
POSTPARTUM RECOVERY SESSION
Ideal for anyone who has recently given birth, whether a few days or many months postpartum. Makes a wonderful gift for a new mother! Rooted in ancient Ayurvedic principles, this session is designed to support those concerned about experiencing postpartum challenges such as fatigue, hormonal imbalance, or lactation issues. These sessions focus on soothing the nervous and endocrine systems, balancing all three dosha influences (especially vata) while providing relaxation, physical healing, and emotional well-being as you navigate the transformative phase of motherhood.
Duration: Up to 2 hours
$325.00
USD Flat rate
PREMIER MOTHER BLESSING CEREMONY
Our Premier Mother Blessing Ceremony offers a more comprehensive and luxurious experience, tailored to create lasting memories. This is ideal for expectant mothers who want a more elaborate and luxurious ceremony, with professional photography to capture the special moments
This package includes:
- Consultation: A 1-hour consultation to discuss and plan every detail of the ceremony.
- Invitation Design: Custom digital invitations for your guests.
- Ceremony Rituals: A wider range of rituals to choose from, including flower crown crafting, blessing stones ceremony, and storytelling.
- Professional Photography: 1-hour professional photography to capture precious moments during the ceremony. 20 edited images delivered via email
- Decor: Premium decor setup with floral arrangements, candles, and soft lighting.
- Keepsake: A personalized keepsake box filled with blessings, wishes, and mementos from the guests.
Duration: Minimum 3 hours.
$750.00
USD Flat rate
Ratings and reviews
Average
5.0
# of Reviews
3
5.0
First of all I’d like to thank Brooke for taking us on such short notice, we had a plan and our little baby girl had a different one coming 3 weeks earlier than expected ! Our original Dula was not available but quickly recommended Brooke and I am very happy she did. Right away Brooke was there for my wife when she needed it most, she provided my wife with a safe and comfortable environment. This being our first pregnancy we had no idea what to expect at the hospital or how this process would work. Brooke was quick to comfort her and teach her new techniques to ease the pain as well as answer any questions I had. She worked dynamically with the L&D team at our hospital and made my wife’s delivery even more smooth. Brooke was able to give my wife the confidence and positive energy she needed to have a healthy birth. Thank you!
- Michael D.
5.0
Brooke is such a calming soul. My birth didn’t go as planned but having her there brought so much peace and comfort I didn't know a “stranger” could bring. She made things not going my preferred way not only better but an enjoyable experience looking back. We talked, we laughed. I’m so grateful for her and I can assure you her and her team are worth every penny. Thank you Brooke for making my second pregnancy and birth a positive one 💕
- Jessica R.
5.0
Brooke was everything we hoped for in a doula and so much more! Her deep knowledge of both the physical and emotional aspects of labor was evident in every moment, and she had an amazing ability to step in right when we needed her most. Brooke helped my partner and me feel completely at ease and comfortable throughout the entire birthing process and guided us with every step of the way. Her prep course and materials equipped us with everything we needed to know, and she provided additional resources for a few unexpected hiccups we faced in the weeks leading up to the birth. During labor, she brought an incredible sense of calm that created the peaceful environment I always hoped for. I’m so grateful to have had Brooke with us on this journey, and I wholeheartedly recommend her to anyone looking for compassionate and expert support in their birthing experience!!
- Stephanie G.
Frequently asked questions
WHAT IF I STRUGGLE WITH DEPRESSION?
Though we are not therapists and cannot diagnose or treat depression, we are trained to recognize the potential signs. We can provide resources for you to receive treatment, and nurture you at home while you are healing, helping you to gain confidence in mothering your baby.
CAN YOU ASSIST WITH BREASTFEEDING PROBLEMS?
Yes, we are trained to support normal breastfeeding. We can give you tips on overcoming basic problems. If these issues persist, we can provide resources for lactation consultants and local support groups. Using nurturing, loving encouragement is our way of helping you gain the confidence to breastfeed your baby.
CAN YOU EXAMINE ME OR MY BABY IF I HAVE A HEALTH CONCERN?
While we are aware of many of the challenges that arise in postpartum parents and babies, any health concern needs to be addressed by your medical provider/s.
MY MOTHER WILL BE STAYING FOR A MONTH AND MY PARTNER WON'T BE RETURNING TO WORK FOR A FEW WEEKS, SO WOULD HAVING A POSTPARTUM DOULA STILL BE HELPFUL?
Yes!! We specialize in promoting parent/infant bonding, and bonding with other family members. We can help everyone to have more time to enjoy the new baby. Our approach is to educate family members on how to care for the new mother (and baby) in ways that will help this precious unit have the best BabyMoon possible. We will help the family to understand the mother’s needs, and guide them to support her in establishing her confidence in her new role as the Mother the way she feels is best for her and her baby.
I AM HAVING TWINS, CAN YOU HELP ME?
A parent’s need for rest, nourishment, and support are even greater with twins. Our team of doulas will become the new parents' extra arms until you have the strength and confidence to care for the babies on your own.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN YOUR SERVICE AND OTHERS, LIKE A BABY NURSE OR NEWBORN CARE SPECIALIST?
A baby nurse OR newborn care specialist focuses solely on the new baby around the clock. A postpartum doula helps the family to be more independent about caring for the newborn also around the clock. For us, we take an Ayurvedic approach and are available for the postpartum parent as well as the rest of the family, to help them nurture the parent, nourish themselves, and enjoy having a new member of the family during daytime hours ONLY.
HOW MUCH TIME WILL YOU SPEND WITH US?
This is dependent upon your situation and needs. A new parent may want this nourishing care throughout their entire month long postpartum recovery. An experienced parent may just want a few days of help catching up on much-needed rest. If you need overnight care, we can refer you to our partner; she will care for your baby as you sleep, comforting them and changing diapers, bringing them to you only to nurse (or bottle-feeding them if that is your wish.)
ARE YOUR SERVICES COVERED BY MY INSURANCE COMPANY?
Even though doulas are known to greatly improve birth outcomes and family bonding, we are not always covered through group health insurance. However, you may be able to submit a copy of your paid invoice to get reimbursed for a portion of your doula fees, or have the cost applied to your deductible. Let us know and we will provide a SuperBill after completion of services.
If you have an HSA/FSA, you will be able to use your card to pay for services upfront. We're happy to discuss this further on our initial intake call.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF PRIVATE SESSIONS VS GROUP CLASSES?
Aspired Mothers' private prenatal sessions allow you to work around your schedule to make it more convenient. The focus is on providing information that is relevant to you, your lifestyle, and situation. Our private childbirth and postpartum preparation sessions allow you the comfort to ask questions you may not have without feeling embarrassed with strangers around.
HOW WILL I BECOME FAMILIAR WITH MY HOSPITAL IF I DON'T TAKE IT'S CLASS?
We are familiar with the standard protocols at all area hospitals and can discuss what you need to know at your specific place of birth. Many hospitals have virtual tours that can you take as well. Depending on scheduling your doula will make themselves available to join you on your hospital tour to ensure pertinent questions to your birth are answered.
WHEN SHOULD I START PLANNING?
We suggest you start before 20 weeks and no later than 36 weeks gestation. If you sign up for a labor or postpartum preparation session we will go over relaxation techniques and they are best when practiced regularly over many weeks.
IS THE INFORMATION COVERED IN THESE SESSIONS THE SAME AS THE INFORMATION SHARED IN A HOSPITAL CHILDBIRTH EDUCATION CLASS?
Our sessions are very comprehensive and cover all the information you need to feel prepared for any type of birth and the early days with your newborn. The benefit of the prenatal prep sessions is that the information is tailored to what YOU want to know.
WHY TAKE ANY OF THESE SESSIONS INSTEAD OF JUST READING INFORMATION?
There is so much information out there that it can sometimes be overwhelming as well as conflicting. My goal is not to only give you information, but to help you discover and cultivate internal resources already within you that will help you meet the challenges birth and parenthood can bring.
No matter what type of birth you're planning - or if you don't have a plan at all - our sessions are a time for you to ask questions, explore your feelings around birth and parenting, and prepare to meet your little one.
Also, you will be invited to our private AM Village group chat in IG to create a community of mother who are going through the journey with you. You can't get that from a book.
WHAT IS A MOTHER BLESSING CEREMONY?
A Mother Blessing is a special, intimate gathering focused on the emotional and spiritual growth that comes with motherhood, as opposed to the board, materialistic focus that comes along with a traditional baby shower. While the idea of accepting attention and sharing in a spiritual ceremony with your friends and family might be uncomfortable, it offers your loved ones the opportunity to pledge their support.
WHERE DOES THIS TRADITION COME FROM?
This ceremony is inspired by the traditional Dine Navajo ‘Blessing Way', but if you look back at many indigenous cultures theres a ceremony in which honors the transition into Motherhood -- being one of the most sacred of all. In our Modern American culture, many of us are choosing to bring forth sacred feminine elements into our childbirth experiences, much like our ancestors had done for generations. I call our version the 'Mother Blessing', rather than recreating the 'Blessing Way', in order to appreciate the roots of this cultural tradition rather than appropriate.
WHAT GOES ON AT A MOTHER BLESSING CEREMONY?
This sacred ceremony is special as it is very personalized. This is an opportunity for Mothers to bring their culture into their childbirth experience, so the decorations like candles, natural material (crystals, shells, flowers, plants, sand), feminine diety sculptures, music, prepared food selection can all be influenced by Mothers' culture. Go as bohemian or boujie as you'd like.
WHY SHOULD I HIRE A BIRTH DOULA?
Why not?!? By hiring me, a doula who is professionally certified with a background in Integrative Health & Wellness, you will feel safe, supported, and confident. I have been professionally trained to tune in to your needs, create the most optimal environment, and continuously support you for your best possible birth and maternity leave.
Doulas are an under-utilized resource, according to ACOG! A recent joint statement released on March 2014 from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine (SMFM) set forth new guidelines designed to prevent primary cesareans. Here are a few highlights:
“Increasing women’s access to non-medical interventions during labor, such as continuous labor and delivery support, has been shown to reduce cesarean birth rates.”
“Published data indicate that one of the most effective tools to improve labor and delivery outcomes is the continuous presence of support personnel, such as a doula.”
“… the presence of continuous one-on-one support during labor and delivery was associated with improved patient satisfaction and a statistically significant reduction in the rate of cesarean delivery.”
I noticed that the link was no longer available on ACOG's site, so in the meantime, while I relocate it here are some others:
https://www.dona.org/acog-smfm-statement-one-of-the-most-effective-tools-to-reduce-the-cesarean-rate-doulas/
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/jmwh.12972
https://www.cochranelibrary.com/cdsr/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD003766.pub6/full
I HAVE A LOT OF QUESTIONS ABOUT MY BIRTH AND WANT TO BE ABLE TO TALK ABOUT MY EXPERIENCE. CAN YOU HELP ME WITH THIS?
Yes, we will offer a listening ear, answer your questions the best we can, and help you to process your experience. Putting your birth in perspective is an important aspect of postpartum healing, and allows you to create more emotional space to bring to the mothering experience.
WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT DURING A PRENATAL SESSION?
During our prenatal sessions, we will work together to address your wishes, needs, questions, and dreams. In addition to our conversations, we may decide to practice a variety of tools such as learning comfort measures, positions for labor and birth, pain-coping practices, baby positioning, visualizations, breathing techniques, preparing for unwished-for events, how to make decisions about interventions, and more.
If you are giving birth in the hospital, we will work together to ensure you (and your partner) are making informed decisions on the possible medical interventions that are common in the hospital setting.
If you are planning to birth outside of the hospital we will work on developing a birth vision board that will help evoke the spirit of your ideal birth as well as a Plan B, because we do not know if a transfer is in the cards and well, I like to ensure we are aware of what could happen to minimize the blow that can occur in the moment your midwife makes that call.
This is a time of great preparation, so our measures will be towards preparing your mind, body, and spirit for the journey ahead.
MY PARTNER WANTS TO BE INVOLVED, WOULD YOUR PRESENCE INTERFERE WITH THEIR LEVEL OF INVOLVEMENT?
Absolutely not. Let's take a moment and recognize that your partner has a strong desire to help, to participate, to feel useful and active throughout the entire journey. But, when two people share an emotional bond and an ongoing relationship, it is very difficult for that companion to remain continuously objective, calm, and removed to some degree from your discomfort and fears, or any danger.
Your partner will benefit from my presence as I will assist them in supporting you during labor and throughout the first 6 weeks postpartum. I may suggest positions, pain-coping practices, or comfort measures such as massage. I may offer breathing techniques, encouragement and a shoulder to lean on. My approach isn't to overshadow, but to enhance the moment. Most partners express their gratitude for the chance to step away, take a break to reenergize, without leaving you alone with no support.
DO I HAVE TO BIRTH OUT OF A HOSPITAL TO HIRE A DOULA?
Not at all. You can birth in a hospital, birthing center, or at home. Your birth, your decision.
I WANT AN EPIDURAL, WILL HAVING A DOULA STILL BE HELPFUL?
Absolutely, even with epidurals, complete pain relief is not a guarantee. With or without an epidural, tools to cope and relaxation techniques from a professionally certified doula as myself can help with the discomforts of labor.
I DON'T CONSIDER MYSELF A CRUNCHY MOM, WOULD YOU STILL SUPPORT MY CONVENTIONAL DECISIONS?
Absolutely. We support everyone who feels the need for additional support. Having a doula isn't a privilege anymore, it's a birthing parents human right to have the kind of support they desire.
Don't limit your thinking. Our society has a funny way of labeling ourselves as this or that, but we don't believe in separating people into categories. We will meet you where you are at.
I AM PLANNING TO HAVE A CESAREAN, WILL A DOULA STILL SUPPORT ME?
Yes. Whether scheduled or not, we will be by your side throughout the process. Depending on the hospital, we can join your partner in the OR. Depending on hospital protocols; we will be there for you in recovery to assist with newborn feeding and to attend to your other needs.
DOES A DOULA PROVIDE MEDICAL SERVICES OR DELIVER BABIES?
As a doula, WE DO NOT provide, nor perform, nor imply clinical/medical procedures, including and not limited to taking blood pressure, fetal heart checks, vaginal exams, etc.
HOW DOES A DOULA WORK WITH MY HEALTH CARE PROVIDER?
No. A doula does not replace your health care provider. Their role is to fill the gaps that your provider does not have the time nor capacity to. As a doula becomes known and trusted, the provider sees her as a member of the team helping the birthing parent with support services.
This is why we like to attend at least one prenatal appointment with you so that we can collectively address your birth plan and answer any questions your provider may have about my role. The good thing is as of date the majority of the obstetricians in our area are doula-friendly.
WHAT HAPPENS IF MY BABY COMES BEFORE OR AFTER MY DUE DATE?
If you have hired a doula for labor support, they will go on-call at 38 weeks gestation, unless stated differently in your service agreement. This on-call period is for 5 weeks around your due date. However, once you hire us, we are committed to serving you no matter how early (or late) your baby is born. Depending on scheduling we may offer additional postpartum sessions to ensure that you are supported within the first week at home.
WHAT IS AN AYURVEDIC POSTPARTUM DOULA
The Ayurvedic postpartum doula cares for the mother and her family in their home in the first 6 weeks following birth. The foundation of care for an Ayurvedic Postpartum Doula is mainly to rebalance the Vata Dosha. This rebalancing is achieved through the Ayurvedic pillars of care which are: Nutrition, Abhyanga, Pranayama/Yoga and Rest
Within this framework, the Ayurvedic doula provides:
Non-Medical/ Non-Clinical Care, Evidenced-Based Education, Suggestions, Referrals, Comfort Care, Support, Empowerment, and Advocacy
The doula focuses on these aspects in order to address the physical, psycho-social, emotional and spiritual needs of the mother, baby and family. Doulas are the conduit of care between the families total health and welfare and her healthcare providers. She is the bridge from birth through the 6 weeks.
The postpartum doula has filled the void of mothering the mother at the bedside, providing care as past communities surrounding mothers did. This care was passed on from one generation to the next and this program reflects this knowledge through the lens of Ayurveda.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF AN AYURVEDIC POSTPARTUM DOULA
An Ayurvedic postpartum doula is a great resource for new mothers. Not only do they provide the specialized care and support you need to rebuild your strength and confidence, but they can also provide guidance and resources that can help you make the most of your postpartum journey. We can also help you make informed decisions that are best for your health and wellbeing.
I KNOW THAT MANY DOULAS ADVOCATE FOR ATTACHMENT PARENTING AND BREASTFEEDING, BUT WHAT IF WANT TO USE A BOTTLE SOMETIMES AND CHOOSE TO NOT CO-SLEEP?
We respect your parenting choices. There is no one way to raise a baby. Whatever makes you feel happy and sane is usually what’s right for you and your family. My hope is for you to better enjoy your postpartum time, making sure that you get the rest and nourishment you need to have the stamina to do the intensive parenting required of a newborn baby (or two).
Please Note: I will not participate in any sort of harmful sleep training, "cry-it-out", extinction methods, Baby Wise, or Ferber methods. I follow a holistic approach to baby care, using natural methods that are mindful of their neurological development.
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