Moana
español/français
I am currently working as apprentice to Lis Worcester of Jade Lotus Midwifery, and won’t be taking on new doula clients. Please check back with your next pregnancy, or contact me if you are interested in home birth!
I grew up in Hawaii and was born at home, in my parents’ house overlooking the cane fields. I was weighed on the grocer’s scale and in my first few years witnessed the home-births of my younger siblings. My mother’s choices made me feel safe and at home in the world, and with my doula practice, I hope to help women follow their own births wherever they lead, trusting that they and their babies will find their way safely and lovingly.
I was trained by ALACE in 2005, by DONA in 2006, and by The Farm midwives in 2007. I’ve volunteered with the Bay Area Birth Association’s pro bono doula program and at St. Luke’s Hospital, and now apprentice with Lis Worcester of Jade Lotus Midwifery. I use a sliding fee scale, which I hope will make my services available to everyone.
I have assisted at both home and hospital births, including induction, cesarean section, and vaginal birth with and without pain medication. Every birth is unique and perfect in its own way. As a divinity student, I approach birth as a spiritual event. I will help maintain a loving and peaceful environment around you as you labor, respond to your emotional needs, and support your right to decide what kind of treatment you receive, so that you feel empowered in your own strength and abilities as a mother. I cannot tell you how to give birth, but I trust you, I trust your body, and I encourage you to do the same.
I welcome birthing women of all backgrounds, whether single or partnered, VBAC or first-time moms, religious or unaffiliated, teens, Spanish-speakers, French-speakers, etc. It is always an honor to see a new person into this world. Good luck in birth and parenthood!
Other Training/Education
BS Creative Writing, MIT 2002. Minors in Spanish and Literature.
MA Creative Writing, Boston University 2004. Focus on Poetry and Translation.
Dreams and Spiritual Care, Pacific School of Religion 2006.
Midwifery Assistant Workshop, The Farm, 2007.
Future Goals
ALACE Doula certification
ALACE Childbirth Educator training
National Midwifery Institute midwifery program
Fee Schedule
The fees listed below reflect 1.5% of household income. If this rate is not possible for you, please discuss your fee with me. Half my fee is due at the time of hiring, and payment in full by 36 weeks. Barters and trades welcomed.
Fee examples
Income - $20,000 Fee = $300
Income - $50,000 Fee = $750
Income - $80,000 Fee = $1200