As a follow up question to Lisa Anne Funk's...I would like to know how the client would be charged if, for some reason, you were unable to be present at the birth? Do you usually collect up front or once services have been rendered?

-- amy vasquez (fourandmom@aol.com), June 01, 1999

Answers

Hi Amy, I collect a portion of the fee at the time my services are requested and the rest 2 weeks before the birth. At the birth I don't want anyone worried about money. If for some reason I am unable to attend the birth and it were my fault I would refund all the money accept for the first deposit. This money is what pays for the prenatal time and being on call for 2 weeks before the birth and until the baby makes an appearance. If I were unable to attend the birth because it were too fast, despite the couple having called, I would work extra with them during the postpartum period. I believe that the majority of our work is before the birth- resolving issues and helping prepare for the birth. If we do a great job the birth will probably be quicker. I have this all laid out in my contract.

Every doula figures out what works best for her. This is where the last few years have led me. Kirsten

-- Kirsten Gerrish (kirsten@doula.net), June 04, 1999.