San Francisco Bay Area Doula
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Birth Support

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My role is to provide support in the form of physical and emotional comfort, and informational support. This includes touch and massage, counter pressure, positional changes and suggestions on how to maintain a positive birth atmosphere. I will remain with you throughout active labor, delivery, and up to two hours postpartum. I am available to answer any questions you may have regarding pregnancy, labor, and childbirth once the contract is signed.

My role as a doula is complementary to that of your partner. I provide support so that he or she may be more present in the birth experience. I do not “take over” or take the place of your partner at a birth, unless that is desired by the family.

I will provide evidence-based information upon request, in a timely manner, and I will assist in acquiring the knowledge necessary to make informed decisions regarding your care.


In both planned and unplanned Cesarean Birth, unlimited support will be offered as allowed by hospital staff before, during, and after surgery. If hospital policy allows, I can stay with you after the birth while your partner tends to your baby. I can provide gentle massage and comforting words, provide help with breastfeeding support, move your belongings to your postpartum room, and pass along any information you would like released to family and friends waiting in the waiting room, or on social media with your permission. ​

Basic

  •  A free consultation, to get to know each other and assess your birth goals.
  • 24/7 Phone and email support throughout your pregnancy and up to 3 weeks postpartum.
  • Up to 2 prenatal visits.
  • On call for 2 weeks both before and after your due date.
  • Continuous care, including unbiased emotional, physical, and informational support and encouragement during labor and birth.
  • 1 postpartum visit. 
  • Referrals to local resources and services.
  • Simple photography, as time allows.

Plus 

In addition to the Basic Package, with the Plus Package you get to choose one of the four perks:
  •  8 Hours of overnight postpartum care. 
  • 1 In-home consultation with an IBCLC. 
  • 1 Prenatal or postpartum massage with a licensed massage therapist. 
  • Placenta Encapsulation.

Deluxe

The Deluxe package allows you to truly pamper yourself. Along with the support provided in the Basic and Plus Packages, you will also receive:
  •  A second postpartum visit, 4 hours in length. 
  • All 4 of the options offered in the Plus Package. 

A la Carte

Perhaps you aren't sure if you would like a doula present at your birth, but you'd like to work with me prenatally. 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.
Photo from Jason Lander
  • Under Construction