The Hard Stuff packages from The Growing Place, LLC are peer-support packages for families experieing hardship in their pregnancy or postpartum period that would benefit from dedicated, one-on-one support. Our Hard Stuff doulas are trained birth and postpartum doulas who have experience in navigating unique complexities including:
- Maternal Pre-existing Health Condition
- Maternal Pregnancy condition such as cholestasis, gestational diabetes
- Anxiety/Depression (chronic or antepartum)
- Past Birth Trauma
- VBAC/VBA2C
- A medical diagnosis for baby
- Pregnancy complications such as IGUR, umbilical or placental issues
- Pregnancy after loss
- Miscarriage or Stillbirth (additional resources can be found at the bottom of this page)
- Fetus incompatible with life
As doulas, our role does not encompass the following:
- Perform Clinical Tasks: We do not engage in clinical procedures such as monitoring blood pressure, conducting fetal heart checks, performing vaginal exams, or any other medical tasks. Our focus is solely on providing physical comfort, emotional support, and advocacy. Please note that we are not medical professionals.
- Make Decisions for You: We do not make decisions on your behalf. Instead, we support you by providing the information necessary for you to make informed choices. We will also help you find resources unique to your situation that may help you in self-advocacy and decision making.
- Communicate with Clinical Staff on Your Behalf: We will not speak to the medical staff on your behalf regarding decision-making matters. Our role is to discuss your concerns with you and present options; however, you or your partner will represent yourselves when communicating with clinical staff.
Response Time for Unlimited Text and Email Communication Packages:
While response times may vary, we aim to answer text communications within 2 hours and emails within 24 hours. Our normal hours are from 8am to 10pm.
If at any time, you are experiencing an emotional, psychological or physical emergency, please communicate with your health care provider or seek care at the closest Emergency Department.
Hard Stuff Packages do not include in person birth or postpartum support. If you would like in person support, please discuss availability with your doula or email us at TheGrowingPlacePA@gmail.com to coordinate additional services.