2021 is here, and while the end is in sight and a lot of hope is in the air, we are still living with COVID as a major factor in our lives. Here at ABG, we value the health and safety of our clients and our doulas.
Since March, we’ve made various shifts and changes, and we wanted to share an update about how we continue to support growing families and doulas near and far.
Virtual Support
Doulas around the world have gotten quite creative in offering virtual support. We have continued to offer our 3 baby preparation classes— Infant Safety and CPR, Breastfeeding Basics, and Newborn Care– and have been facilitating them online via Zoom. One major benefit is that we can support families who live in Austin, as well as ANYWHERE else in the world.
Since COVID arrived, we have been offering virtual postpartum support, which is a flexible option when in-home postpartum support is out of the budget or not available. These are also perfect for families who aren’t certain they want or need in-home care; it’s a starting point that can help you assess and check-in. During these visits, we can answer your questions about baby’s patterns and your needs. We will also give recommendations and referrals to other trusted birth professionals.
This virtual client’s testimonial says it all: “Loved being able to work with Allison, waiting for our first child to arrive I was filled with SO many questions. I really liked the option to meet virtually especially in the third trimester when sometimes you’re tired and don’t want to go anywhere or have anyone in the house. She was able to address all of my questions and fears and give answers as well as links to resources that would be helpful. I cannot express how invaluable it was to have someone to talk to and the convenience of working virtually was the best. ” – Autumn H.
Our blog is a library of resources that parents can consult with along their journey. Check out this piece about coping with AND celebrating the postpartum period during COVID.
In-Person Support
We are proud to continue working with families in their homes during the postpartum period. Due to COVID, we’ve made a number of adjustments in order to prioritize safety and decrease risk of exposure.
Our doulas work with only one family at a time. Additionally, we have all doulas and clients consult the Texas Medical Association COVID Risk Scale. Most of our doulas are all maintaining a risk tolerance level of 2 or 3 on this scale. A few others are maintaining precautions, but are open to working with families who are closer to levels 6 or 7, as we know school or daycare is a necessity for some people. Additionally, we created a survey that both clients and doulas complete; we use this to create risk tolerance matches that feel good to everyone.
While on shift, all doulas wear masks if requested by the family. They maintain excellent handwashing procedures and wear clean clothing into the client’s home for each shift. Outside of the shift, doulas are closely monitoring for potential COVID symptoms, checking temperatures regularly, and wearing masks consistently if or when they are in the community.
Learn more about our in-home services and book a consult here.
Online Doula Training
While this online training was not the product of a COVID-pivot, we want to highlight the fact that we are educating and building community with postpartum doulas around the world. This training is self-paced and includes practical hands-on doula skills, as well as business support.
If you or someone you know is ready to support growing families, check out our training here.
2021 Here We Come
As we head into this new year, we remain hopeful, diligent, and focused on supporting you and your family. We are so honored to be a part of your team as you welcome baby home. Please reach out if you’re ready for support.
*Photo credit: Jenna Christina on Unsplash
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