San Francisco Bay Area Doula
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Antepartum Support

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Simply, an Antepartum Doula supports families who are dealing with pregnancy complications or high risk pregnancies, who may or may not be on bed rest, but are facing limitations.

​I focus on all the little things that you're probably telling yourself that you should do: grocery shopping, meal prepping, laundry, housekeeping. All those little activities add up, especially when your doctor has recommended that you take it easy and focus on growing your sweet little bundle(s). 

There are many complications in pregnancy that may lead to bed rest, including 
​
  • Hyperemesis Gravidarum 
  • Gestational Diabetes
  • Preeclampsia
  • Incompetent Cervix
  • Unexplained Bleeding
  • Hypertension ​
  • Multiples (Twins+)
  • Placenta abruption, previa or accreta
  • Premature rupture of membranes
  • Low amniotic fluid
  • Anxiety
  • Exhaustion
When I'm supporting you, I'm also supporting your whole family. I quietly step in, offering detailed attention to your needs. I can assist with housekeeping, child tending, meal prepping, nursery organization, as well as assisting with research and understanding the current evidence-based recommendations. My main focus is that you feel supported and empowered, and that you get the rest your healthcare provider has recommended.

I listen to you: your concerns, your fears, how you're feeling. Along with recognizing those feelings, I can also offer outside resources, coping techniques, resources for boredom, as well as techniques to help you relax. 

If you'd like to chat about your needs, feel free to contact me!

Rates

Hours and length of service depends upon availability and mutual agreement, and will be drafted into a tailored contract. 

​$45 per hour. Packages available.
Contact Megan

A la Carte

I offer a la carte options that are meant to empower you prenatally so you are comfortable in your birthing journey.

Pre-Birth Planning Consultation ($199): We will spend around 2 hours finding ways to relieve stress and lessen any fears you may have surrounding childbirth. This may be providing evidence-based information while answering any questions you may have, crafting a birthing wishes guide for your healthcare team, and cover one to two comfort measures. 
Comfort Measures Class($250): This 3 hour class provides training and information regarding ways to find comfort in labor. Maybe you've thought, "but my partner can be my doula!" We can role play and/or practice the techniques beforehand, so that you will have a toolbox full of options and skills before your birth.
​Newborn Care Basics($199): Have you heard of the 5 S's? Has your neighbor left "What to Expect..." on your door? Everyone has an opinion on how to do it right, but I can show you how to do it all. You can decide what works best for your family. ​
There are many things I can do to assist and serve your family, however there are just a few that I cannot. As a doula, I do not:
  • Perform clinical tasks, such as taking blood pressure, fetal heart checks, or vaginal exams.
  • I do not administer medications. 
  • Make decisions for you. I will help you get the information necessary to make an informed decision every step of the way.
  • Speak to medical professionals on your behalf.
  • Prescribe, diagnose, or treat any medical condition that may arise. ​
**In the event of an emergency situation, I will call 911. If a medical emergency does arise, I will do what measures I am capable of to keep you or your loved one safe until help arrives. This will fall under the Good Samaritan Law.
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Megan Shinkle
[email protected]
Cell: 916-317-5841
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New and growing families can feel confident knowing that I will respect their wishes and cultures, and that I will be a support to the entire family. You can rest assured, knowing that you have a wealth of knowledge, experience, and guidance an arm's length away.
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