What is the 4th trimester?
The 4th trimester is the twelve week period following the birth of your child. Gabrielle’s services are not limited to the 12 week mark; she focuses on milestones and common obstacles that may arise during the first year of your baby's life.

When should I book your services?
Gabrielle has been booked as early as 7 months before a due date, and as short-notice as 3 days after the baby's birth. Give her a call or shoot her an email and she’ll let you know if your due date is available on her calendar.

What is a doula?
The word "doula" comes from the ancient Greek meaning "a woman who serves" and is now used to refer to a trained and experienced professional who provides continuous physical, emotional and informational support to the mother before, during and just after birth; or who provides emotional and practical support during the postpartum period. As a postpartum doula, Gabrielle offers education, companionship and nonjudgmental support during the postpartum fourth trimester. She assists with newborn care, family adjustment, meal preparation and light household tidying. Gabrielle offers evidence-based information on infant feeding, emotional and physical recovery from birth, infant soothing and coping skills for new parents and makes appropriate referrals when necessary.

What's the difference between a postpartum doula and a baby nurse?
The difference between a postpartum doula and a traditional baby nurse is the level of support that each of these roles can offer. A traditional baby nurse is a RN (although not always) that cares for your baby while you sleep, providing specific medical care. Gabrielle is also a Newborn Care Specialist, so while she takes over the care of your newborn while you sleep, she is also trained to support you, your partner, and offer education. Gabrielle takes the extra time to go over breastfeeding, formula questions, swaddling, sleep cycles, and anything else you may be wondering about.

What support do you offer for my partner, older children, grandparents, extended family?
Gabrielle supports all members of your family. She offers education for new dads and older siblings. She also offers support for grandparents, while also setting up boundaries that you deem are necessary.