// Victoria BC Doula Services
A doula helps by providing services including:
- Assistance with emotional and physical discomfort
- Communication and advocacy with medical professionals
- Training on breastfeeding techniques
- Postnatal care such as initial bathing, umbilical cord care, etc.
A doula is present for one reason only; to support YOU
Often, in the hectic environment that is our hospitals, it can be difficult for parents to receive the proper care they require. Every focus is given to the physical well-being of the baby, which can neglect your needs.
Emerald is here for you. Soothing massages can help ease physical discomfort. Beverages, cold towels or any other item can be retrieved. Fathers may struggle at the sight of their loved one in pain, and can rely on a doula for emotional support.
The role of a doula is varied, and unique to each parent.
A doula is very helpful for high-risk childbirths and mothers with special needs
Emerald specializes in assisting parents with unique challenges, including mothers with addiction or cognitive issues, abusive relationships, physical disabilities, and single or teenage mothers.
A doula can provide knowledge and information about conception and parenting
In addition to providing support during childbirth, Emerald is a wealth of knowledge regarding all aspects of the pregnancy and birthing process. This includes fertility treatments and their side effects, pre and post partum mood disorders, adoptions, and much more.
A doula can document the event
Emerald also offers photography throughout the entire process. Very often, the event can pass so quickly that the memory is only a blur. With Emerald present, you will ensure that your childbirth is unforgettable.
Dads and doulas
The father is often (understandably) given less support and attention during the birthing process. However, there are challenges that arise for them as well, and Emerald can be there to provide support to Dad. This may include emotional re-assurance, help with children and giving some time to take a shower or walk the dog.
Whole-spectrum support
Emerald believes in a holistic process, wherein the entire family’s needs are met, and your pregnancy is healthy, safe and memorable.
Unlimited support during the birthing process
Always on call
Once your retainer fee is paid, Emerald is on call at any point during your labour. She will travel with you in the car, be available on the phone or in person, and be a consistent voice throughout the process.
Post Partem Support
After the birth is complete, she will stay for a minimum of two further hours and offer unlimited support for 48 hours to provide advice in whatever capacity you require, either by phone or in person.
Lactation and Fertility
Emerald offers professional guidance in a wide variety of other birthing related areas, like lactation and fertility.
Monitrice
Emerald also offers some Monitrice services (pre-birthing labour monitoring) for certain pre-screened clients. This can be discussed during your initial consultation. There’s nothing like hearing your baby’s heart beat while you’re waiting to give birth!
Lending Library
Access Emerald’s extensive library of birthing related literature.
“Her no nonsense, knowledgeable approach instantly put us at ease. She continued to be a calming resource, to text and call to check up leading up to “D Day”. When the contractions really kicked off, Emerald was quick to drop everything and meet us at home to assess and make the decision to get us off to the hospital. She didn’t leave our side until we were settled in our recovery room with our little girl (more than 24 intense hours later).
Emerald was able to take so many treasured photos throughout our daughters birth, that alone is a wonderful reason to have a doula present. But most valuable was having Emerald postpartum on a number of occasions to talk through my birth event and process all that had happened. She was able to fill in the gaps of the events I couldn’t remember or wasn’t aware of.
She was able to explain why certain things happened. She helped me heal and reframe my experience, and continued to offer additional resources should I feel I needed them.”
-Corrina Cornforth
Emerald Appleby
Professinal Doula training (Camosun College / DONA)
Lactation Educator training (Douglas College)
Childbirth Education training (Douglas College)
A lifetime of service
Emerald has attended more than 200 births since 2004. She is employed solely as a doula, which means she is able to offer a 100% commitment to your birthing experience.
More than just a doula
Being a single teenage mother herself, Emerald understands the challenges that parenthood can bring. She can offer services, information, and advice regarding adoptions, fertility treatments, abortions, surrogate pregnancies, lactation and breastfeeding, birth pool rentals, and much more. Her extensive knowledge of the entire process makes her an incredibly valuable resource.
Committed to the birthing community
As part of her commitment to providing healthy birthing experiences, Emerald takes on a select number of pro bono clients each year. If you are financially insecure and would benefit from a doula, please get in touch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are doula services covered by BC Medical or extended health plans?
Currently, doula services in BC are not covered by BC Medical. Some extended medical plans may cover doula services. Check with your provider to see if your plan includes doula services
How far in advance do I need to start the process?
As far in advance as you like! Emerald’s services include many pre-natal topics such as planning for a home birth, birthing pool rental, adoptions, surrogates, and more. You can even contact Emerald before you are pregnant to discuss fertility treatments or any other concerns you may have around the birthing process.
How much do Emerald's doula services cost?
Emerald charges a flat rate of $1400 per birth. Pre and post partum services are billed at $40/hr, with an initial 40 minute consultation that costs $100.
Is photography included in the price?
Yes! All photographs are included a free for you to use forever. Photos are delivered digitally, and printing costs are not covered.
What’s the difference between a doula and a midwife?
A midwife is a primary healthcare provider, similar to an obstetricion. A doula provides more of a support role, and is there primarily for the comfort and health of the entire family.
What areas do you serve?
Anywhere in the Greater Victoria. This includes Sooke, the Saanich peninsula, and as far up island as Shawnigan Lake.