Really, just someone who shows up with love and courage for you while you navigate the journey into the unknown and process however you need to.

They do not try to treat, fix, or help you overcome your grief but rather honor the fact that your life will be forever changed.

More specifically, a bereavement doula is a professionally trained person who provides emotional support to families through the many aspects of pregnancy loss during or after any gestation.

The support received is similar in nature to the support received from a labor doula; however, support through early birth is more complex and specialized.

As a bereavement doula I’m with you prior to, during, and after the birth of a baby who has been born early or is not expected to live long post birth.

It’s helping a family say hello to their baby despite having to say goodbye.

fertility struggle,

miscarriage,

chemical pregnancy,

blighted ovum,

ectopic pregnancy,

fatal diagnosis,

carrying to term,

diagnosis/anticipatory grief,

rainbow/live birth,

abortion,

twins and multiples,

NICU stay

postpartum maternal care and more.

Family preparation to include birth education and coping plans.

Logistical and birth planning for miscarriage, birth at home, hospital admission and birth, memorial/funeral services, returning to work, home stabilization, and more.

Comfort measures during the labor and birth process.

After birth support. Self-care and support plans, meal preparation and coordination, going home plans, and more.

Welcoming assistance when requested. Preparation for welcoming baby, holding, swaddling, bathing, arranging for photography of baby and family (including siblings) as desired.

Non-Medical postpartum maternal care (general postpartum health, locia/bleeding, nutrition and meals, facing lactation options, and more).

NICU support and companionship.

Explaining the difference between grief, mourning, and depression.

Referrals for additional support such as therapists, photographers, financial assistance, sibling counseling, postpartum mood disorders, support groups, and more.

Farewell Ceremonies Resources (laws and information for ways to say goodbye).

Support while going through IVF.

Remembrance, Keepsake assistance, Birth and Bereavement Announcements.