What is a bereavement doula?
A bereavement doula supports families who are experiencing the loss of their baby, whether through miscarriage, stillbirth, or a terminal diagnosis.
We support families during birth in any trimester and with any outcome. No matter the diagnosis or age of your baby, it is your baby, and we would be honored to walk beside you and bear witness to your child’s life.
We will help you prepare for the birth, support you during labor, and help you welcome your baby with dignity. We can give you resources and ideas for how you can make the most of your time with your baby and how you can make memories and keepsakes that you can hold onto when your baby is gone.
If you have just found out that you are experiencing a loss and would like someone to walk beside you, please feel free to reach out. Even on short notice, if someone is available we would be honored to help you through this.
How we can help
Every journey is different, so the support will look different as well and can be adjusted to what you need.
During pregnancy a doula can:
- Come to appointments with you
- Make a Birth Plan and Farewell Plan with you
- Arrange for a birth photographer
- Setup a chore/meal plan for family and friends to offer practical support
During labor/birth a doula can:
- Offer physical and emotional support during labor
- Regulate visitors
- Help you make memories and keepsakes (handprints/footprints, pictures, etc)
Postpartum a doula can:
- Find a Rückbildung (pelvic floor strengthening) course for you to take with other mothers who have lost their babies
- Accompany you to your postpartum checkup
- Bring meals/snacks
- Arrange a Farewell for your baby
- Go on a walk or play with older siblings
- Help you navigate what arrangements need to be made and which forms need to be filled out
Also see our resource list for families who are facing a miscarriage or stillbirth.
Bereavement doula services
In support of those going through this difficult journey, we offer bereavement services at a discounted rate. Still, if money is a barrier, please get in touch to discuss alternative arrangements. A wide range of support options are available, depending on your needs. Family members and friends wishing to donate to help you cover the cost of my services may purchase a gift card for you here.
There is no foot too small that it cannot leave an imprint an imprint on this world.
frequently asked questions
Is a doula a replacement for a midwife?
No. A doula is not a medical professional. Doulas do not diagnose you or your baby, monitor your baby’s heart, assess its position, or perform vaginal exams.
Will a doula replace my partner?
No. If you have a partner who is available and willing to support you during your birth, that is amazing. The connection you have and the ‘insider knowledge’ he/she has of you will be invaluable during labor. Your doula will come alongside both you and your partner and support you both. She can get you snacks or go get a midwife so that your partner can stay by your side, or can stay with you when partner needs a break.
Especially when you are expecting a loss or an unknown outcome to your birth, it can be helpful for the partner to be allowed to experience their emotions as they come and not have to worry about not being supportive or helpful enough for the laboring woman.
If my labor takes a long time, will I be charged extra?
No. Your doula stays with you throughout your labor, no matter how long it takes. We have a flat fee that does not get reduced in the case of a fast labor, nor does it increase for a long labor. This allows you to focus on your birth experience and not worry about how long it is taking.
If I go into labor or am induced unexpectedly, will you still come?
Yes. If you are hoping to carry your baby to term (40 weeks gestation) we will be on call for you two weeks before that date until the baby comes. If you go into labor sooner or you and your care provider decide to induce, please let us know as soon as possible and we will make every effort to be there.
What locations do you serve?
We are currently serving clients in Canton Zürich, but our network is expanding so if you’re not sure, just ask.
How many weeks do I have to be in order to have a bereavement doula?
There is no limit. Contact me if you need support at any time in your pregnancy or after a loss, for example:
– You have miscarried early in your pregnancy and would like resources and ideas on how to remember your baby.
- You have gotten a questionable test result back and aren’t sure what it means for you and your baby.
- You have lost your baby a while ago and are looking for ways to heal and keep your baby’s memory alive — please get in touch.
Get in Touch
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