Tara McDougal - Birth Doula

About Tara

Hello my name is Tara and I am passionate about birth! I have been a nurse for 12 years but I have found so much joy and fulfillment in doula work because of the continuous presence for comfort, advocacy and support , that I can provide for my clients. I believe birth is miraculous and that women deserve to be celebrated, supported, and empowered as they experience birth. I also believe that birth is normal and that women are stronger than they think they are. I desire to help women trust in their bodies and the birth process.

Birth Doula packages and pricing

Continuous Doula Support & Photography

2 Prenatal visits to get to know you, your partner, provide essential education and review your birth preferences. Up to 24 hours of continuous labor support during active labor. I will stay with you for an additional 1-2 hours to make sure you and your partner are settled and comfortable and to help initiate breast feeding, if that is your desire. 1 postnatal visit to go over postpartum care, newborn care and breastfeeding positions and challenges. I will provide you of a minimum of 25 photos but likely up to 75-100 of your laboring process, first moments with baby, measurements and newborn exam.

$2,000 USD · Flat rate

Childbirth Education

Private in home birthing class catered to your needs. Guided by InJOY birth education packet I normalize the birthing process, remind you of your right to informed consent for any tests or procedures and review labor positions and comfort techniques. This class is fun, interactive and visual, to empower you to go into birth trained and educated!

$300 USD · Flat rate

Accepted insurance

Tricare Message Tara to confirm coverage for your plan.

What to expect

I will meet with expectant mom and partner for two prenatal visits in their home or location of preference. During these visits, I will: discuss your desires for birth, create a birth plan, provide education about what to expect in labor and delivery (in order to normalize labor and reduce fears), and review evidence-based literature and practice positions to manage pain in labor. Outside of these visits, I will maintain open communication via phone, text, and email to support, encourage, educate and prepare you for your birth. In active labor and birth, I will provide continuous support, meet you at your home or your birth location with you, stay for one to two hours postpartum to advocate for “the golden hour” with your baby, and assist with breastfeeding. One week after your birth, I will provide a postpartum visit at your home to debrief your birth, assist with breastfeeding and newborn care, discuss recommended practices to promote healing and rest, and answer any additional questions you may have. Guided by InJoy Health Education, The Birth Service brings childbirth education to your home! A 3 hour class that is private, personalized, and convenient for you and your birth support team. This service is offered to all expectant mommas or in addition to our doula services. Virtual classes are available upon request.

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Certifications, training, and specialties

Certification and training

Birth Doula Certification, DONA International (2020)

Education

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (2010)

Languages

English

Certifications, training, and credentials are listed by the provider. Bornbir doesn't verify them, so ask Tara for a copy of any certificate you rely on.

Frequently asked questions

What if you are sick and I go into labor?

I work with wonderful doulas and always have a "back up" ready to step in and help for the chance of illness or emergency. The doulas I work with are similar to me in demeanor, birth approach and support.

Do you take separate payments?

Yes I do. Depending on your package I take half the payment when you hire me as your doula and then second half at your last prenatal appointment. I am happy to split it up any other way you would like.

What about dads?

My whole goal is to empower you and your partner throughout birth and never replace or diminish their role. Labor is hard work and 2 support people are very needed for position changes, comfort techniques and breaks. Together we help make your birth experience positive and supportive as we work as a team.

When do you become "on-call" for my birth in my pregnancy?

Starting at 38 weeks until the birth of your baby I am available to you for birth. Communication is key to notify me of any labor signs to clear my schedule for the next 24 hours and be ready to come to you when you call.