About Cocoa Butter Doula

Welcome to Cocoa Butter Doula! I'm Charlotte, the founder and lead doula, and I'm thrilled to be your guide on this transformative journey into parenthood.

With a background deeply rooted in supporting underserved populations within the criminal justice system, I bring a wealth of experience in advocating for and empowering individuals and families during challenging times.

I transitioned into the doula profession to continue serving families in a deeply meaningful way. Drawing upon my background in advocacy and support, I am committed to providing unwavering care and guidance to families as they embark on their childbirth journey.

From offering evidence-based information and emotional support to providing practical assistance and guidance, I am committed to empowering families to make informed decisions and embrace their unique parenting journey with confidence.

At Cocoa Butter Doula, my approach is grounded in warmth, expertise, and genuine care. I believe that every family deserves to feel supported, informed, and empowered throughout the birthing process. Whether you're a first-time parent or expanding your family, I am here to walk alongside you, offering emotional support, practical assistance, and advocacy every step of the way. Together, let's create a birth experience that honors your unique journey and celebrates the strength and resilience within you.

We can help

Prenatal Support

From exploring your birthing options to developing a personalized birth plan, our prenatal advocacy services are tailored to meet your unique needs and preferences, ensuring that you feel empowered, informed, and supported every step of the way.

Labor and Birth

From the onset of labor until your baby's arrival, your doula will provide continuous physical, emotional, and informational support, offering comfort measures, encouragement, and reassurance .

Postnatal Services

Our support doesn't end with the birth of your baby. We'll stay by your side as you navigate the immediate postpartum period, offering guidance, assistance, and encouragement as you transition into your new role as parents. From lactation support to hands-on assistance with newborn care, we're dedicated to nurturing you and your baby through this transformative time.

 FAQs

  • What a Doula Does:

    Provides Emotional Support: Doulas offer continuous emotional support to expectant mothers and their partners throughout pregnancy, labor, birth, and the postpartum period.

    Offers Information and Guidance: Doulas provide evidence-based information and guidance on pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care, helping parents make informed decisions about their birth preferences.

    Physical Comfort Measures: Doulas utilize various comfort measures such as massage, positioning, breathing techniques, and relaxation exercises to help ease discomfort during labor and birth.

    Advocates for the Mother: Doulas advocate for the mother's preferences and wishes during labor and birth, ensuring her voice is heard and respected by medical professionals.

    Continuous Presence: Doulas provide continuous support during labor and birth, remaining by the mother's side to offer encouragement, reassurance, and comfort measures.

    What a Doula Doesn't Do:

    Medical Procedures: Doulas are not medical professionals and do not perform medical procedures, such as administering medication or conducting medical assessments.

    Make Medical Decisions: While doulas provide information and support, they do not make medical decisions on behalf of the mother or override medical advice from healthcare providers.

    Replace Partners or Support Persons: Doulas complement the support provided by partners or other support persons; they do not replace them.

    Provide Postpartum Medical Care: Doulas offer emotional and practical support during the postpartum period but do not provide medical care or advice.

    Guarantee Specific Birth Outcomes: While doulas can enhance the birth experience and provide valuable support, they cannot guarantee specific birth outcomes or prevent complications.

  • No, a doula does not make medical decisions on your behalf. Doulas provide emotional support, informational guidance, and physical comfort measures during pregnancy, labor, and birth. While they can offer information to help you make informed choices, they do not have the authority to make medical decisions for you.

  • It's generally recommended to start looking for a doula early in your pregnancy, ideally during the second trimester or even earlier if possible. This allows you ample time to research, interview, and select a doula who aligns with your birth preferences and who you feel comfortable with.

    Hiring a doula earlier in your pregnancy also allows you to establish a rapport with them, discuss your birth plan, and address any concerns or questions you may have as you prepare for childbirth. Additionally, doulas may have limited availability, so booking early can help ensure you secure the services of the doula you prefer.

    Even if you find yourself later in your pregnancy and haven't yet hired a doula, it's still worth contacting us to determine your options and discuss availability.

  • A doula will be glad to discuss this with you during a free consultation, as there are combination and stand-alone pricing options available, depending on the service you choose.

    To speak with a doula about pricing and services, please fill out the form in the contact section.

  • Even if you're planning to have an epidural, a doula can provide invaluable support throughout your labor and birth journey. Doulas offer continuous emotional support, advocate for your preferences, provide comfort measures, and offer guidance during your entire birthing process, regardless of the pain management options you choose.