Carol Anne & SJ have over 20 years of combined doula experience serving families in the Greater Toronto Area and Headwater Hills region. As doulas and childbirth educators their passion for supporting families has only become stronger as they continue to build relationships with partners in the community to help create "the village" families need and deserve as they welcome their babies into the world.
Carol Anne is an incredible source of encouragement to expectant families as well as families in the postnatal period who are in the throws of learning about life with baby combined with lack of sleep! She has a gift for helping parents find their strength and their own voice. Carol Anne's humour and personality make all of our clients feel at ease and supported as they transition through pregnancy, birth and through the early months of parenthood.
SJ's eyes light up every time she stands in front of a class to teach prenatal classes. There is no denying that she is passionate when it comes to her work as a childbirth educator, birth and postpartum doula. Her commitment to professionalism is reflected in the unbiased support she offers families on their journey through pregnancy, childbirth and parenthood.
Carol Anne is mama to two incredible and inquisitive boys. It was during her first pregnancy that she learned about the benefits of having a doula and knew in her heart that this was a career and passion she wanted to pursue.
SJ is a proud parent to 3 boys, twins and a singleton. The birth of SJ's twins launched them on to the path of becoming a doula after realizing the importance of choice and support in maternal and infant care. SJ has a special place in her heart for multiples and those facing the possibilities and realities of premature birth and NICU care for their infants.
Dr. Raphael has been in practice working with a special focus on family wellness for over a decade. He received specialized training in pediatric & prenatal care and continued this focus with certification in the Webster Technique through the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA).
Aidan is a passionate and experienced Infant Sleep Educator and Holistic Sleep Coach. Aidan’s goal is to help normalize infant sleep and support parents to trust their own gut when it comes to parenting their children. She provides compassionate, evidence based and easy to follow sleep support for families. Her strategies promote infant mental health, protect attachment and result in better sleep for children and their parents alike.
Caitlin graduated Humber College in 2018 from the Massage Therapy program. In school, she was taught valuable lessons and obtained skills to allow her to be the confident therapist she is today. During her studies she was able to complete internship rotations with various population groups; because of this she feels comfortable treating people from infancy to the elderly.
Mom of 2 and wife of 1, Victoria’s passion in life is helping new parents navigate the wonderful world of Babywearing! Always focusing on the importance of creating lasting attachment bonds with your child. As a professional Babywearing Educator, Victoria will educate your family on the convenience of being “hands-free” with the benefits of keeping your baby close and enjoying your daily life!
Angela Wallace is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with the College of Dietitian's of Ontario and holds a Bachelor’s degree in food and nutrition and a Master’s degree in applied human nutrition. She is a valued part of the team offering our families nutritional support during pregnancy, postpartum, and for their growing family through parenting workshops such as Baby Led Feeding.
Sarah is a strong advocate for preparation and evidence-based information. She brings years of experience working with pregnant persons from many varying backgrounds and cultures, including families and individuals going through adoption processes. Sarah’s reassuring calmness and sense of humour help parents to feel relaxed and confident during their journey in parenthood.
Rebecca has been working in the birthing field since the mid 1990’s. It is her aim to help parents prepare for childbirth, support them through labour and the journey of parenting. She has been featured in "Guelph Life", "Holistic Parent Magazine", "Today's Parent", and "The Globe and Mail" in issues regarding birth and postpartum, and has been invited to speak at continuing education events for peers and birthing professionals.
Amanda has a passion for all things birth and baby! It was Amanda's birth experience with her 3rd baby that she had the support of the Lifetime of Love Doula team, and it was this experience that inspired her to explore doula work as a profession. After the birth of her 4th baby she made the jump into her dream career and hasn't looked back since.
Tara brings almost ten years of experience in the childcare field to her career as a doula. She has always been passionate about assisting new parents and was thrilled to transition to birth work. Her down-to-earth, open nature and sense of humour ensures clients feel comfortable. Tara believes in the power of preparation
Desiree is passionate about providing postpartum care to families, helping them feel calmer and better equipped to handle life with a baby. Her goal is to empower families to navigate parenting with self-kindness, a willingness to learn and grow from mistakes, and to help them understand that there is no such thing as a perfect parent!
Over the past decade in her childcare career, Tara assisted and cared for many families and their children. She often touches on these experiences as a doula to help new parents navigate through unchartered territory, particularly during those first weeks of life with a newborn. In her spare time, you can find her reading
or spending time with her sister.
Amanda is momma to 4 amazing little ones. She lives on a hobby farm with her husband, kids and all of their fur babies. She started her career in the direction of animal care but after becoming a younger mom, this path was halted. During her birth experience her doula Carol Anne became her shining light in a very tough transition period. It inspired her so much that she wanted to provide that same shining light to other birthing people.
Volunteering is important to Rebecca as well. She is an active member on several boards and committees, and Breastfeeding Buddy peer supporter. In the past she has volunteered to teach breastfeeding classes and assist healthcare providers at a refugee clinic in Egypt, and as a speaker about child development and breastfeeding for Roots of Empathy.
Sarah loves to chat about all things pregnancy, birth, and babies. Though originally from Canada, she began her career as a doula in the UK following the birth of her 2nd baby. Sarah believes each parent has their own unique story which guides their decisions and provides unbiased support to help them navigate their journey. She is dedicated to supporting families to find their own rhythm and style of parenting. When not working with families, Sarah can often be found cycling with her children or checking out local shops and cafes.
Angela specializes in women and family health. She specifically works with weight management, gut health, fertility, pre/postnatal nutrition, and all things family nutrition (introducing solids to your little one, picky eating, fueling your little athlete, simplifying family meals, allergies, etc.).
Her nutrition services include one on one support, gut reset programs, simply balanced weight loss, individual or family meal plans, introducing solids support, picky eating support, breastfeeding support, nutrition for pregnancy, and so much more!
Registered Dietitian (College of Dietitians of Ontario)
Masters of Science in Applied Human Nutrition (University of Guelph)
Motivational Interviewing (Monarch System)
Craving Change Certified
Personal Training Specialist (Canfitpro)
Beginner & Intermediate Mat Pilates (Power Pilates)
Core Confidence Specialist (Bellies Inc)
TRX Training
Pre&Postnatal Pilates (Body Harmonics & Merrithew)
Member of the International Infant Feeding Network
Member of the Consulting Dietitians Network
Member of the Pediatric Dietitians Network
CPR Certified
After 20 years in her Marketing career, Desiree decided to pursue her passion for maternal care. She has first hand experience with postpartum depression, and deeply understands all the trials and tribulations of parenthood, particularly in the 4th trimester.
As a Mom to two teen boys, her experiences with her pregnancies and postpartum opened her eyes to the importance of having the right kind of support to ensure a healthy and stable start to nurturing a family.
Desiree became a mom 20 years ago. She had 2 c-sections and healing healing process was not an easy one. While she did have help from family members, she often wonder how new parents cope with the transition into parenthood. She realize that becoming a doula she could offer some beneficial and needed support and make the transition for new parents a smooth and easier one. She decided that becoming a postpartum doula was definitely the career path for her!
Victoria's services are dedicated to helping caregivers gain access to basic baby carrying practice and baby carrier knowledge! Victoria will cover everything from why we wear our babies to all the safety
elements of using a baby carrier.
Not familiar with the types of baby carriers out there? Victoria has you covered! She has several types to see and experience in her learning library and she cannot wait to spend some time with you and
your family.
When Caitlin is not at work, you can find her outside with her family and dog. She enjoys hiking, walking, going to the gym, participating in recreational sports, skating and camping. She has a love for music, crafting and baking.
Perinatal Massage: All soon-to-be or already there mamas need some TLC. Swelling, joint dysfunction, shoulder and neck tension from nursing, back pain from carrying, stressed or tired? No worries, we are here to help.
Infant & Child: As tiny humans grow they can also need some attention. Digestion, sleep disturbances, anxiety and just general growing pains are only some of the reasons to seek massage therapy for your littles.
Aidan is a mom to two little ones and adores babies and children of all ages. Aidan started out supporting families as a doula, but after struggling with her first child’s sleep, knew that this was where she wanted to help parents the most. Aidan’s outgoing and empathetic nature is partly due to her fifteen years working as an actor. Whenever she can, Aidan enjoys being in nature and spending time at her cottage in Tiny, Ontario.
Dr. R graduated with an Engineering degree from McMaster University prior to obtaining his Science degree and Doctor of Chiropractic from Logan University, where Dr. Larry Webster also studied prior to creating the Webster Technique and founding the ICPA.
His engineering and science background give him a unique perspective, bringing a linear, systematic, evidence based approach to the biomechanics of the human body.
Dr. Raphael also espouses a vitalistic, wholistic view on health and wellness, where the whole is greater than the sum of the parts.
Fiona is especially passionate about helping young parents, as she was a young mom herself when she had her son. A few years after she gave birth, she heard about doulas and realized this was the best career for her desire to support families through that pivotal moment of becoming parents.
Kate is a proud mama of a son and a daughter. Having experienced 2 very different pregnancies of her own years apart and then becoming a Doula she understands that there is no right or wrong way to give birth.
Her excitement for helping families and empowering parents in their new roles is her passion and cuddling babies is an added bonus!
Christa had been serving families for almost half a decade before putting her career on hold to experience her own journey into motherhood. When she is not attending births you can find her snuggling her dimpled baby boy, engrossed in a good book or podcast or in deep conversation over coffee.
They helped cook and clean up, so I could recover. They taught us how to baby wear & bathe our newborn. They showed me how to nurse more successfully and supported every part of my journey to becoming a mother. Carol Anne was a shoulder to cry on and a joyful heart to laugh with. When our second was born, SJ would sit and play with both children. I knew I could trust them to care for both children while I much needed
rest. "
My husband and I couldn’t imagine the birth of our beautiful son without the assistance, guidance and knowledge of Carol Anne. She instructed my husband with squeezes and counter pressures to help with my back labour, gave amazing encouragement (to us both!) & helped keep me calm…having her there was an absolute game changer. We also invested in postpartum hours which I am convinced created the success we had with breastfeeding, bathing & life with a newborn. "
I still remember coming home from an appointment early on in pregnancy and being told that my potential birth plan may not be possible. I was devastated. I emailed Sarah and Carol Anne and asked for advice. Sarah phoned me right away and we discussed an evidence-based plan that both supported my wishes, while also being respectful of my medical professional's legitimate concerns. I was able to go to my next appointment informed and empowered with my plan - which was respected and well received by my medical professional."
Tara was key in providing us with information to make well informed decisions and continued to support us virtually once we moved to the hospital. Having her in my ear kept me calm and grounded and I am so happy to have gotten the birth experience I have always wanted."
Fast forward to our due date (and the actual day our little Mini decided to make his appearance), Carol Anne was there helping me breathe through all my contractions, and helping my other half stay calm through the whole process. That for me was REALLY important."
Sarah gave my husband the knowledge and confidence to support me in the best way possible. Needless to say, they made a great team! He even got to cut the cord, a very special moment for him. "
Having a doula is like having a birthing coach that is in your corner completely, they are there for you the entire time. I would highly recommend a doula! "
We did switch over to Sarah after a very long labour and the transition was seamless and Sarah was there to assist with the delivery of our daughter and again coach me through different positions. Postpartum, Sarah was a huge asset to have for both myself personally and my family. I owe all of my *PAIN FREE* breastfeeding success to her. "
Either way I knew I had made the right decision. Then Covid - 19 happened. Everything changed. Except for one thing... These two ladies. They delivered the same quality of service via phone and video chat. They ensured my husband and I were always heard, every worry was addressed and always offered support. "
I initially met the lovely doulas of Lifetime of Love when they won a photo session with me. After getting to know them and then having the pleasure of seeing them in action at births where I was photographing there was zero hesitation for me to book them for my own birth. Having had two previous births of my own I knew what I was entering into but having Sarah beside me at my birth made all of the difference in the world."
This led us to the wonderful women of Lifetime of Love, where we enlisted in their HypnoBirthing and Breastfeeding classes, and later on made the decision for birth & postpartum doula services as well. Having the support of a birth doula in the latter part of my pregnancy, as well as at delivery and in the first two weeks postpartum was truly amazing. Sarah was always there, whether it was via text or a phone call to answer my questions and calm any fear I had."
I had the pleasure of working with this lovely service for postpartum support. I am so very grateful for your support and friendship. Having you ladies in my corner made a great difference. To me, it was the difference between baby blues and full blown depression. It was the difference between being isolated and being supported to step outside of my comfort zone and finding community mommy groups/socials. When my baby was not feeding well you led me to the resources that ultimately saved her life (very grateful). "
You were both so supportive and kind, providing useful information and checking in on us regularly. Carol Anne was there for me through each contraction - saying what I needed to hear and pressing on my hips to ease the pain. No judgement of me walking around like a zombie in adult underwear, or communicating through moans rather than words. You sure chose a challenging profession but we are so grateful. It really changed the experience from being scary and unbearably painful to manageable and feeling like we were safe. "
As well, I was induced for 32 hours but baby's head wasn't engaging (he was afraid of the cold:-)) but the breathing and relaxation took me through the contractions without any pain medications. I wasn't disappointed that I had a c-section as my ultimate prayer, hope and goal was to have a healthy baby which I did. We delivered a beautiful, healthy baby boy, Elyon, by caesarean on Monday February 4, 2019 at GT hospital. It was an incredible experience and we are now home beginning our new reality. "
This was not the experience I wanted to have and once we found out about the Lifetime of Love Doulas, I knew our experience could be positive and beautiful. Sarah & Carol Anne are vibrant and kind women. They are extremely knowledgeable. They instantly made me feel like I could do this and it could be a positive experience. Between the classes and their in person support, I had the tools to have a birth experience that far exceeded anything I could have ever dreamed of."
It was calm and beautiful. It was an experience that made me feel completely powerful and proud. That day, we welcomed two new members into our family. "
The HypnoBirthing class and prenatal appointment helped us feel sufficiently prepared for labour by practicing breathing and counter pressure techniques.
Once my water broke, I was super grateful that I was able to call the labour line to ask for advice and set up a plan. Carol Anne's encouraging words, amazing counter pressure skills and HypnoBirthing techniques helped me stay calm and played a big part in me having the home birth I wanted. Having Carol Anne there for the birth is something we will forever be grateful for."
It was calm and beautiful. It was an experience that made me feel completely powerful and proud. That day, we welcomed two new members into our family. "
My biggest fear was the birth, and the pain associated with it. Carol Anne was a reassuring presence in the time of transition. She kept me calm and helped guide my husband through massage and counter pressure techniques during my contractions. I honestly believe that if Carol Anne was not in the room with me, I would not have had the calm, natural birth that I was hoping for. Her guidance and support helped me welcome my baby in a way that is rarely talked about."
Sarah's calming words, encouragement and reassurance gave me the strength to endure my labour. When our baby girl finally arrived, healthy and safe, words could not express how thankful and grateful we were to have Sarah by our side. I truly feel that having Sarah at our birth contributed to my positive and short labour. I didn't think I could have my first baby at home, naturally, and I did it! Having a doula at your delivery is something that you will NOT regret!"
I met with Sarah & Carol Anne and they were both truly supportive of my situation. They ensured that no matter what I needed, they would be able to provide the help my family needed. A little over a day after my son was born, my beautiful mom passed away. It was both the hardest and most wonderful time of my life as an irreplaceable person left my life and a new one entered. Sarah was our primary doula and she was such a comfort when I needed it most."
Carol Anne gave us the feel of an older sister cheering us on. After having met us once prior to childbirth, she already seemed to know our hearts and preferences for a positive and safe childbirth experience. Some may view doula support services as a luxury or optional "add-on", but for us it was an absolute necessity to help ensure that this life altering experience was not fear based, but rather full of confidence, excitement and trust. "
We arrived at the hospital at 10pm I was 5cm dilated and Mason was born at 11:46! I was on the fence on doing a natural birth (though I've always wanted to) but because of how fast he came I didn't much have a choice! Your class helped me so much with my breathing and it helped Tyler talk me through transition! It was so amazing to be able to give birth exactly the way I always planned and that is all because of your classes! I've recommended to everyone I know. Thank you for your part in making our birth the best it could be!"
The prenatal class gave us confidence leading up to the labour and also postpartum. During my labour, Nicole not only took care of me like a sister. During the postpartum visit I shared my struggles with breastfeeding, and she provided several helpful tips. Sarah referred us to a specialist, who later assessed and released baby’s tongue tie, which made breastfeeding immediately easier, and most importantly, an enjoyable experience for both baby and me."
Having the labour line number to call and a calm and knowledgeable voice on the other end of the phone at 4am was encouraging and calming. I knew that Nicole had my back - and that alone made labour easier! The Postpartum Support was a complete lifesaver! Five months later I reached out to my doulas again for tips and tricks about infant sleep education. Carol Anne came to our home for a consultation and cannot wait to put some of her suggestions into practice."
It takes a village to raise these tiny ones and I am so grateful this village of doulas entered into our life and our home.
When the day came he was home but we couldn’t imagine the whole process happening without the help of Carol Anne and Sarah. We had planned a home birth and as these things go...it didn’t go as planned. After 24 hours of labour, we did end up in the hospital for a cesarean section delivery. My doula provided invaluable emotional, educational and physical support. We will forever be thankful for all they did for us over those many hours and the postpartum care as well."
Carol Anne & Sarah are kind, professional & knowledgeable. They gave me a sense of stability and confidence in preparation for what was to come, with the warmth of a close friend.
When I retell the story of our son’s birth, I tell people Carol Anne “hit the ground running….without missing a step”. I was nearly four weeks early and labour happened quickly, however none of this threw Carol Anne off, as she rushed into the hospital room and knew exactly what to do."
Carol Anne and Sarah came to our home to go over the supports they offer, and once they left I knew I couldn’t have asked for better guides as I began my journey as a mother. I chose to become a client right away, but it felt more like I gained two lifelong friends. Throughout my pregnancy, they checked in on me and answered any questions I had as I prepared for my little one."
A spinal cord injury left me somewhat anxious about the home birth, especially when my sciatic left me bed ridden days before the birth began. Being in bed in turn resulted in my baby being birthed face up, unbeknownst to us beforehand. I would NEVER have had the strength to endure the labour I had without Carol Anne."
We thought about it for a while, and we were honestly on the fence about having a doula because this was our third baby (we should know what we are doing by now we thought) but our second daughter was born 10 weeks early via c-section and it was a very traumatic birth experience. So we decided that the extra support would be a good thing for me.
One of the best decisions ever!"
Everything from the home visits during pregnancy, creating our birth plan, including our daughter throughout the entire process, support at the delivery (I cannot go without mentioning the power of counter pressure and the hip squeeze!) and the hours of help at home after baby Riley arrived was exactly what we needed and we didn't even know it when we started."
They kept us calm during the stressful parts and assured us that everything that was happening was normal. In addition to the hands-on labour and birthing support we received, the girls also went above and beyond by making us healthy snacks, helping to clean up, taking our dogs out so Jeff and I could still be together, and documenting the earliest moments of Owen’s life with a collection of photos I will cherish forever.
Carol Anne thank you so much for being my Doula on the day of my baby's birth! You really helped me feel more confident that I could do this and you helped me get through those tough moments when I thought I couldn't do it anymore. I will totally be recommending you guys to anyone I know that's planning to have a baby - you guys are awesome!"
The experience was great! Any questions I had leading up to the delivery were always responded to very quickly! When it came to birthing day we had Sarah with us and it was really helpful to have an extra set of hands keeping me calm and comfortable."
Sarah was on call and she was absolutely amazing! We would not have been able to have the birth experience we wanted without her. She is kind, caring and amazing at her job! We are so happy that she was part of the birth of our baby girl. We could not be happier and more satisfied with the birth experience this time around."
When the birth day came, she spoke softly and used HypnoBirthing techniques to relax me and help me cope with contractions. When she called to check on us after birth I was having issues with breastfeeding. She was very helpful in showing me some hand expressing techniques and connected us with an amazing Lactation Consultant. She also hugged me many many times when I just felt helpless and frustrated!"
Leading up to the day I went into labour Carol Anne was always available to chat over the phone. She helped me understand different things I was experiencing during pre labour and was there to support me through all my mixed feelings and emotions about what we were both about to experience. I had many fears leading up to delivery and Carol Anne was able to talk through them with me from an experienced point of view which was exactly what my husband and I needed."
She was there to help prepare and give us the confidence we needed in birthing our second child. Anything at all that we needed she was there with a huge smile on her beautiful face! Carol Anne was there to give me the courage I needed to push through. She believed in me when I was tired and wanted to give up. She helped me focus and regroup and gave me the strength I needed to birth my beautiful baby boy! If you choose Carol Anne to be your Doula you will be getting an positively amazing support system! You will NOT be disappointed!"
Brampton Civic Hospital - William Osler
Cortellucci Vaughan Hospital
Credit Valley Hospital
Etobicoke General Hospital - William Osler
Georgetown Hospital
Headwaters Healthcare Centre
Humber River Hospital
Mackenzie Health Richmond Hill
Markham-Stouffville Hospital
Michael Garron Hospital
Milton District Hospital
Mississauga (Trillium) General
Mt. Sinai Hospital, Toronto
North York General Hospital
Oakville Trafalgar Memorial Hospital
Southlake Regional Hospital
Stevenson Memorial Hospital
St. Joseph's Hospital, Toronto
St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto
Sunnybrook Hospital, Toronto
Toronto Birth Center
Toronto General Hospital
With virtual doula care now available, we can now support families across the country!
WHAT IS A DOULA?
WHAT KIND OF TRAINING DOES A DOULA HAVE?
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF HAVING A DOULA? WHAT DOES THE RESEARCH SAY?
WHAT IS THE BIRTHING PHILOSOPHY OF LIFETIME OF LOVE DOULAS?
DOES A DOULA REPLACE MY PARTNER?
WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A DOULA AND A MIDWIFE? IF I HAVE A MIDWIFE DO I STILL NEED A DOULA?
WHAT IS YOUR “ON CALL” PERIOD?
WHAT IS A “SHARED CARE MODEL”, WHY DO YOU USE IT, AND HOW IS IT DIFFERENT FROM HIRING A SOLO DOULA?
DO DOULAS ATTEND BIRTHS IN HOSPITALS AS WELL AS HOME BIRTHS?
I HAVE AN OBGYN [OB] DO I STILL NEED A DOULA?
WILL A DOULA STILL SUPPORT ME IF I WANT AN EPIDURAL? DO I STILL NEED A DOULA IF I PLAN ON GETTING AN EPIDURAL?
WHAT IF I HAVE A PLANNED OR AN EMERGENCY CAESAREAN BIRTH, HOW WILL A DOULA HELP ME?
WHAT IS A DOULA?
WHAT KIND OF TRAINING DOES A DOULA HAVE?
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF HAVING A DOULA? WHAT DOES THE RESEARCH SAY?
WHAT IS THE BIRTHING PHILOSOPHY OF LIFETIME OF LOVE DOULAS?
DOES A DOULA REPLACE MY PARTNER?
WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A DOULA AND A MIDWIFE? IF I HAVE A MIDWIFE DO I STILL NEED A DOULA?
WHAT IS YOUR “ON CALL” PERIOD?
WHAT IS A “SHARED CARE MODEL”, WHY DO YOU USE IT, AND HOW IS IT DIFFERENT FROM HIRING A SOLO DOULA?
DO DOULAS ATTEND BIRTHS IN HOSPITALS AS WELL AS HOME BIRTHS?
I HAVE AN OBGYN [OB] DO I STILL NEED A DOULA?
WILL A DOULA STILL SUPPORT ME IF I WANT AN EPIDURAL? DO I STILL NEED A DOULA IF I PLAN ON GETTING AN EPIDURAL?
WHAT IF I HAVE A PLANNED OR AN EMERGENCY CAESAREAN BIRTH, HOW WILL A DOULA HELP ME?
WHAT IS A DOULA?
A doula is a professional support person trained to provide non-judgemental emotional, physical and informational support to families and individuals during their pregnancy, birth, and postnatal period.
Lifetime of Love Birth Doulas provide email, text, phone and Ssupport from the moment you hire us in your pregnancy. Your birth doula offers you support for your birth as soon as you need her and will provide continuous support throughout the entire birth process, as well as immediately after the birth. She can assist with skin-to-skin care, baby’s first feed (breastfeeding or bottle), and ensuring that you settle in after the birth before she leaves.
As a part of our birth doula services, our support also includes postpartum follow ups (depending on your purchased package) to check in on how you are recovering from birth, how infant feeding and care is going, and to answer any questions you may have pertaining to your birth experience or the challenges of parenting a newborn.
Our Postpartum & Infant Care Doulas (also known as Postnatal Doulas) provide on-going support for families after the birth of their baby. A postpartum doula helps with both your physical and emotional recovery from birth, as well as assisting with newborn care and completing household tasks such as light housework and meal preparation. Another important aspect of postpartum care includes offering in home parent companionship, help with establishing coping skills and offering practical advice on adjusting to life with a newborn.
WHAT IS A DOULA?
WHAT KIND OF TRAINING DOES A DOULA HAVE?
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF HAVING A DOULA? WHAT DOES THE RESEARCH SAY?
WHAT IS THE BIRTHING PHILOSOPHY OF LIFETIME OF LOVE DOULAS?
DOES A DOULA REPLACE MY PARTNER?
WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A DOULA AND A MIDWIFE? IF I HAVE A MIDWIFE DO I STILL NEED A DOULA?
WHAT IS YOUR “ON CALL” PERIOD?
WHAT IS A “SHARED CARE MODEL”, WHY DO YOU USE IT, AND HOW IS IT DIFFERENT FROM HIRING A SOLO DOULA?
DO DOULAS ATTEND BIRTHS IN HOSPITALS AS WELL AS HOME BIRTHS?
I HAVE AN OBGYN [OB] DO I STILL NEED A DOULA?
WILL A DOULA STILL SUPPORT ME IF I WANT AN EPIDURAL? DO I STILL NEED A DOULA IF I PLAN ON GETTING AN EPIDURAL?
WHAT IF I HAVE A PLANNED OR AN EMERGENCY CAESAREAN BIRTH, HOW WILL A DOULA HELP ME?
WHAT KIND OF TRAINING DOES A DOULA HAVE?
Though there are many certifying bodies within the industry, typically (and traditionally), doulas are trained to provide non-judgemental support with an in depth understanding of normal physiological birth, common interventions, medicated and non-medicated births, caesarean births, natural pain management techniques, birth choices, families’ rights, breastfeeding and bottle feeding support. Many doulas are also trained in a number of comfort measures such as massage, acupressure and counter-pressure techniques. It should not be overlooked that doulas are also a source of emotional and information support for the whole family.
We are proud to have doulas on our team with diverse and extensive training. Our doulas have trained with many multidisciplinary certifying bodies and continue to keep up with their education through the ongoing process of continuing education. Our training comes from excellent organizations such as DONA International, ProDoula, CAPPA, StillBirthDay, Childbirth International, The HypnoBirthing® Institute, INFACT Canada, Attachment Parenting International, and BEBO MIA.
All of our doulas are also members in good standing with the Association of Ontario Doulas and are certified in Standard First Aid & Infant CPR (Level C CPR & AED).
WHAT IS A DOULA?
WHAT KIND OF TRAINING DOES A DOULA HAVE?
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF HAVING A DOULA? WHAT DOES THE RESEARCH SAY?
WHAT IS THE BIRTHING PHILOSOPHY OF LIFETIME OF LOVE DOULAS?
DOES A DOULA REPLACE MY PARTNER?
WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A DOULA AND A MIDWIFE? IF I HAVE A MIDWIFE DO I STILL NEED A DOULA?
WHAT IS YOUR “ON CALL” PERIOD?
WHAT IS A “SHARED CARE MODEL”, WHY DO YOU USE IT, AND HOW IS IT DIFFERENT FROM HIRING A SOLO DOULA?
DO DOULAS ATTEND BIRTHS IN HOSPITALS AS WELL AS HOME BIRTHS?
I HAVE AN OBGYN [OB] DO I STILL NEED A DOULA?
WILL A DOULA STILL SUPPORT ME IF I WANT AN EPIDURAL? DO I STILL NEED A DOULA IF I PLAN ON GETTING AN EPIDURAL?
WHAT IF I HAVE A PLANNED OR AN EMERGENCY CAESAREAN BIRTH, HOW WILL A DOULA HELP ME?
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF HAVING A DOULA? WHAT DOES THE RESEARCH SAY?
Many studies have shown that having a doula at your birth (a professionally trained and unbiased support person – as opposed to or in addition to a family member) lowers birth complications and the use of unnecessary interventions. It also increases parents’ overall satisfaction with their birth experience.
Some interesting facts about Doula Support:
39% decrease in the risk of Cesarean
15% increase in the likelihood of a spontaneous vaginal birth
10% decrease in the use of any medications for pain relief
Shorter labors by 41 minutes on average
38% decrease in the baby’s risk of a low five minute Apgar score
31% decrease in the risk of being dissatisfied with the birth experience
Source: https://evidencebasedbirth.com/the-evidence-for-doulas/
“Doula-assisted mothers were four times less likely to have a low birth weight (LBW) baby, two times less likely to experience a birth complication involving themselves or their baby, and significantly more likely to initiate breastfeeding.”
Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3647727/
WHAT IS A DOULA?
WHAT KIND OF TRAINING DOES A DOULA HAVE?
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF HAVING A DOULA? WHAT DOES THE RESEARCH SAY?
WHAT IS THE BIRTHING PHILOSOPHY OF LIFETIME OF LOVE DOULAS?
DOES A DOULA REPLACE MY PARTNER?
WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A DOULA AND A MIDWIFE? IF I HAVE A MIDWIFE DO I STILL NEED A DOULA?
WHAT IS YOUR “ON CALL” PERIOD?
WHAT IS A “SHARED CARE MODEL”, WHY DO YOU USE IT, AND HOW IS IT DIFFERENT FROM HIRING A SOLO DOULA?
DO DOULAS ATTEND BIRTHS IN HOSPITALS AS WELL AS HOME BIRTHS?
I HAVE AN OBGYN [OB] DO I STILL NEED A DOULA?
WILL A DOULA STILL SUPPORT ME IF I WANT AN EPIDURAL? DO I STILL NEED A DOULA IF I PLAN ON GETTING AN EPIDURAL?
WHAT IF I HAVE A PLANNED OR AN EMERGENCY CAESAREAN BIRTH, HOW WILL A DOULA HELP ME?
DOES A DOULA REPLACE MY PARTNER?
We respect your partner’s role and their level of involvement during the birth. A doula is there to support both of you. A birth doula will also make sure that your partner is cared for and is able to eat, use the restroom, and take breaks as needed without worrying about you or feeling guilty.
WHAT IS A DOULA?
WHAT KIND OF TRAINING DOES A DOULA HAVE?
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF HAVING A DOULA? WHAT DOES THE RESEARCH SAY?
WHAT IS THE BIRTHING PHILOSOPHY OF LIFETIME OF LOVE DOULAS?
DOES A DOULA REPLACE MY PARTNER?
WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A DOULA AND A MIDWIFE? IF I HAVE A MIDWIFE DO I STILL NEED A DOULA?
WHAT IS YOUR “ON CALL” PERIOD?
WHAT IS A “SHARED CARE MODEL”, WHY DO YOU USE IT, AND HOW IS IT DIFFERENT FROM HIRING A SOLO DOULA?
DO DOULAS ATTEND BIRTHS IN HOSPITALS AS WELL AS HOME BIRTHS?
I HAVE AN OBGYN [OB] DO I STILL NEED A DOULA?
WILL A DOULA STILL SUPPORT ME IF I WANT AN EPIDURAL? DO I STILL NEED A DOULA IF I PLAN ON GETTING AN EPIDURAL?
WHAT IF I HAVE A PLANNED OR AN EMERGENCY CAESAREAN BIRTH, HOW WILL A DOULA HELP ME?
WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A DOULA AND A MIDWIFE? IF I HAVE A MIDWIFE DO I STILL NEED A doula?
A midwife and doula’s primary roles are quite different. A midwife is trained to be your primary health care provider whose main focus is on the medical health of you and your baby. A doula’s role is non-medical. Doulas do not perform medical exams or deliver (catch) your baby. A doula is a valuable part of your birthing team, available to you any time throughout your pregnancy to answer questions. During labour, your doula offers continuous emotional, informational and physical support to both you and your partner during the entire birth helping you through every contraction while the midwife’s role is focused on the more medical aspects of birthing. In our experience, midwives and doulas make a great team! As the saying goes “a midwife takes care of you from the waist down [birth of baby, placenta, etc.] and doulas take care of you from the waist up [remember to breath, this is normal, you’ve got this]!”
"Doulas [...] are exclusively focused on providing non-clinical care. They are specialists in labour support and unlike midwives, do not have clinical obligations which could detract from their mission to continuous support to the family. Doulas are often present at a birth, quietly coaching a mother with breathing, assisting her with positioning or mobility, providing drinks, nourishment, cold cloths and encouragement throughout the process. Doulas also are often available to be physically present with families during the early labour stage, whereas midwives reserve their care for active labour. As a midwife, there have been many times that I am grateful for the presence of a doula to deliver this kind of support while I am occupied preparing necessary equipment or focusing on hands-on clinical skills necessary for a safe delivery. The type of care that doulas and midwives provide have important differences, but really can be quite complementary when used together." - Stephanie Aghajani, Midwife
WHAT IS A DOULA?
WHAT KIND OF TRAINING DOES A DOULA HAVE?
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF HAVING A DOULA? WHAT DOES THE RESEARCH SAY?
WHAT IS THE BIRTHING PHILOSOPHY OF LIFETIME OF LOVE DOULAS?
DOES A DOULA REPLACE MY PARTNER?
WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A DOULA AND A MIDWIFE? IF I HAVE A MIDWIFE DO I STILL NEED A DOULA?
WHAT IS YOUR “ON CALL” PERIOD?
WHAT IS A “SHARED CARE MODEL”, WHY DO YOU USE IT, AND HOW IS IT DIFFERENT FROM HIRING A SOLO DOULA?
DO DOULAS ATTEND BIRTHS IN HOSPITALS AS WELL AS HOME BIRTHS?
I HAVE AN OBGYN [OB] DO I STILL NEED A DOULA?
WILL A DOULA STILL SUPPORT ME IF I WANT AN EPIDURAL? DO I STILL NEED A DOULA IF I PLAN ON GETTING AN EPIDURAL?
WHAT IF I HAVE A PLANNED OR AN EMERGENCY CAESAREAN BIRTH, HOW WILL A DOULA HELP ME?
WHAT IS YOUR “ON CALL” PERIOD?
The “On Call” period is the time that a doula goes on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to you in anticipation of labour. Many doulas do not offer on call services until 37 or 38 weeks gestation, however, we are available to you from the moment you hire us. In our experience, babies come when they want and that may be weeks before or after their EDD (estimated due date). You will be given a “Labour Line” number to call when you suspect that you are in labour so that you can reach your doula team immediately, day and night.
WHAT IS A DOULA?
WHAT KIND OF TRAINING DOES A DOULA HAVE?
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF HAVING A DOULA? WHAT DOES THE RESEARCH SAY?
WHAT IS THE BIRTHING PHILOSOPHY OF LIFETIME OF LOVE DOULAS?
DOES A DOULA REPLACE MY PARTNER?
WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A DOULA AND A MIDWIFE? IF I HAVE A MIDWIFE DO I STILL NEED A DOULA?
WHAT IS YOUR “ON CALL” PERIOD?
WHAT IS A “SHARED CARE MODEL”, WHY DO YOU USE IT, AND HOW IS IT DIFFERENT FROM HIRING A SOLO DOULA?
DO DOULAS ATTEND BIRTHS IN HOSPITALS AS WELL AS HOME BIRTHS?
I HAVE AN OBGYN [OB] DO I STILL NEED A DOULA?
WILL A DOULA STILL SUPPORT ME IF I WANT AN EPIDURAL? DO I STILL NEED A DOULA IF I PLAN ON GETTING AN EPIDURAL?
WHAT IF I HAVE A PLANNED OR AN EMERGENCY CAESAREAN BIRTH, HOW WILL A DOULA HELP ME?
WHAT IS A “SHARED CARE MODEL”, WHY DO YOU USE IT, AND HOW IS IT DIFFERENT FROM HIRING A SOLO DOULA?
Most doulas work solo which can leave you wondering “what happens if my doula can’t make it to my birth?”. The solo doula has to co-ordinate with a back up doula if they are unable to attend your birth. In most cases, this is usually someone you have not met or spoken to leaving the possibility that you won't know the doula who attends your birth.
Our doula support is offered using the “Shared Care Model” which is new to the doula profession, but a model that midwives successfully use. In our company, shared care means that you will have two primary doulas that share an on-call schedule and a back-up doula who fills in as needed. Throughout the course of your pregnancy, you will have multiple opportunities to get to know your whole doula team during prenatal appointments and classes and well as through emails and phone calls. When you call the “Labour Line”, your call is directed to your team and whichever doula is on-call is the one who attends the birth. The biggest benefit of having a doula team is that you have the resources of their combined experience, training and knowledge and if you have a long birth (12 or more hours) another member of your team will relieve your tired doula and be able to provide you with fresh unwavering support.
WHAT IS A DOULA?
WHAT KIND OF TRAINING DOES A DOULA HAVE?
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF HAVING A DOULA? WHAT DOES THE RESEARCH SAY?
WHAT IS THE BIRTHING PHILOSOPHY OF LIFETIME OF LOVE DOULAS?
DOES A DOULA REPLACE MY PARTNER?
WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A DOULA AND A MIDWIFE? IF I HAVE A MIDWIFE DO I STILL NEED A DOULA?
WHAT IS YOUR “ON CALL” PERIOD?
WHAT IS A “SHARED CARE MODEL”, WHY DO YOU USE IT, AND HOW IS IT DIFFERENT FROM HIRING A SOLO DOULA?
DO DOULAS ATTEND BIRTHS IN HOSPITALS AS WELL AS HOME BIRTHS?
I HAVE AN OBGYN [OB] DO I STILL NEED A DOULA?
WILL A DOULA STILL SUPPORT ME IF I WANT AN EPIDURAL? DO I STILL NEED A DOULA IF I PLAN ON GETTING AN EPIDURAL?
WHAT IF I HAVE A PLANNED OR AN EMERGENCY CAESAREAN BIRTH, HOW WILL A DOULA HELP ME?
DO DOULAS ATTEND BIRTHS IN HOSPITALS AS WELL AS HOME BIRTHS?
Absolutely!
The common misconception (thanks to comedies and stereotypes perpetuated my media) is that a doula is only for people having non-medicated home water births – but this is just not the case! While we do attend many home births, the majority of the births we attend are in fact in hospitals. Remember, we are trained to support you wherever and however you choose to give birth. Local hospitals recognize the importance of doula support and allow patients to have a doula attend the birth as one of their support people.
WHAT IS A DOULA?
WHAT KIND OF TRAINING DOES A DOULA HAVE?
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF HAVING A DOULA? WHAT DOES THE RESEARCH SAY?
WHAT IS THE BIRTHING PHILOSOPHY OF LIFETIME OF LOVE DOULAS?
DOES A DOULA REPLACE MY PARTNER?
WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A DOULA AND A MIDWIFE? IF I HAVE A MIDWIFE DO I STILL NEED A DOULA?
WHAT IS YOUR “ON CALL” PERIOD?
WHAT IS A “SHARED CARE MODEL”, WHY DO YOU USE IT, AND HOW IS IT DIFFERENT FROM HIRING A SOLO DOULA?
DO DOULAS ATTEND BIRTHS IN HOSPITALS AS WELL AS HOME BIRTHS?
I HAVE AN OBGYN [OB] DO I STILL NEED A DOULA?
WILL A DOULA STILL SUPPORT ME IF I WANT AN EPIDURAL? DO I STILL NEED A DOULA IF I PLAN ON GETTING AN EPIDURAL?
WHAT IF I HAVE A PLANNED OR AN EMERGENCY CAESAREAN BIRTH, HOW WILL A DOULA HELP ME?
I HAVE AN OBGYN [OB] DO I STILL NEED A DOULA?
With more and more Obstetricians working in larger collective groups, many times the OB that is on call and attends you on birthing day is someone you may not have met or only met briefly in your pregnancy. In many cases the OB only enters the birthing room to make recommendation or when you are ready to push your baby out. An OB’s primary role is your medical health and your baby’s medical health.
Nurses are typically unable to stay in your room throughout your entire labour (in fact in Canada nurses spend up to 75% of your birth outside of your room and have shift changes every 12 hours). Their primary role is to focus on your medical health as well as your baby’s medical health.
A birth doula, in many instances, is the only “constant”. We are there throughout your pregnancy, your entire labour experience as well as during the immediate and long-term postpartum period. We are filling a crucial gap in the maternal, parental and infant support system.
WHAT IS A DOULA?
WHAT KIND OF TRAINING DOES A DOULA HAVE?
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF HAVING A DOULA? WHAT DOES THE RESEARCH SAY?
WHAT IS THE BIRTHING PHILOSOPHY OF LIFETIME OF LOVE DOULAS?
DOES A DOULA REPLACE MY PARTNER?
WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A DOULA AND A MIDWIFE? IF I HAVE A MIDWIFE DO I STILL NEED A DOULA?
WHAT IS YOUR “ON CALL” PERIOD?
WHAT IS A “SHARED CARE MODEL”, WHY DO YOU USE IT, AND HOW IS IT DIFFERENT FROM HIRING A SOLO DOULA?
DO DOULAS ATTEND BIRTHS IN HOSPITALS AS WELL AS HOME BIRTHS?
I HAVE AN OBGYN [OB] DO I STILL NEED A DOULA?
WILL A DOULA STILL SUPPORT ME IF I WANT AN EPIDURAL? DO I STILL NEED A DOULA IF I PLAN ON GETTING AN EPIDURAL?
WHAT IF I HAVE A PLANNED OR AN EMERGENCY CAESAREAN BIRTH, HOW WILL A DOULA HELP ME?
WILL A DOULA STILL SUPPORT ME IF I WANT AN EPIDURAL? DO I STILL NEED A DOULA IF I PLAN ON GETTING AN EPIDURAL?
Of course – a Lifetime of Love doula will most definitely will support you if you want an epidural! Remember, our doulas support whatever type of birth you choose.
What many people are not aware of is that even if they are planning to get an epidural in labour as a form of pain management, you still have to get through early labour. Typically, a hospital will not admit a patient until they are at least 4 centimetres dilated. Keep in mind that epidurals do not always work and can be “patchy” in their pain management. A doula can help you throughout your whole labour no matter when you get your epidural, and a doula can be particularly helpful during the “pushing” stage of labour for those choosing an epidural.
There is also still the aspect of emotional, physical and informational support that a doula continues to provide throughout the entire birth and immediate postpartum experience regardless of the epidural.
WHAT IS A DOULA?
WHAT KIND OF TRAINING DOES A DOULA HAVE?
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF HAVING A DOULA? WHAT DOES THE RESEARCH SAY?
WHAT IS THE BIRTHING PHILOSOPHY OF LIFETIME OF LOVE DOULAS?
DOES A DOULA REPLACE MY PARTNER?
WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A DOULA AND A MIDWIFE? IF I HAVE A MIDWIFE DO I STILL NEED A DOULA?
WHAT IS YOUR “ON CALL” PERIOD?
WHAT IS A “SHARED CARE MODEL”, WHY DO YOU USE IT, AND HOW IS IT DIFFERENT FROM HIRING A SOLO DOULA?
DO DOULAS ATTEND BIRTHS IN HOSPITALS AS WELL AS HOME BIRTHS?
I HAVE AN OBGYN [OB] DO I STILL NEED A DOULA?
WILL A DOULA STILL SUPPORT ME IF I WANT AN EPIDURAL? DO I STILL NEED A DOULA IF I PLAN ON GETTING AN EPIDURAL?
WHAT IF I HAVE A PLANNED OR AN EMERGENCY CAESAREAN BIRTH, HOW WILL A DOULA HELP ME?
WHAT IF I HAVE A PLANNED OR AN EMERGENCY CAESAREAN BIRTH, HOW WILL A DOULA HELP ME?
Our birth doulas are trained to support you through a caesarean birth. Depending on the circumstances and the attending OB, we may be in the operating room to support you and your partner or waiting in the recovery or postpartum room. In the case of a caesarean birth, we typically remain with you longer afterwards helping you recover and if you have chosen breastfeeding for your infant feeding plans, a caesarean section can sometimes pose a few challenges in establishing breastfeeding. It is important to us that you still meet (or reassess) your goals, and we are trained to support your breastfeeding journey and make referrals if needed to the best support within your community.