FAQs

Pregnancy, birth, and the early weeks with a baby bring many new experiences — and often many questions. Some concerns may feel practical, others more emotional. It’s completely normal to look for clear answers and reassurance at this time.

This FAQ section gathers some of the most common questions parents-to-be ask me. It is designed to give you reliable information, ease uncertainties, and help you prepare with confidence. Of course, every family’s situation is unique, and no list can cover everything. If you don’t find your question here, please feel free to reach out — I am always happy to listen and provide guidance tailored to your needs.

Having a Baby in Ningbo / China

Are birthing centres or home births available in China?

No — birth centuries are not available and home births not permitted in China. Birth must take place in a hospital. Nevertheless, Doula-supported and individual preparation can help you have a positive, personalised hospital birth.

Can you recommend one hospital for antenatal care and birth in Ningbo?

THE ideal hospital does not exist: the choice depends on your location, budget, pregnancy course and personal birth preferences. I will listen to your wishes and advise you individually.

How can I make sure my birth is respectful and follows my wishes?

A positive birth experience is supported by good preparation and clear communication. I recommend:

· Inform yourself: attend a preparation course and check options for maternity wards in your city.

· Create a birth plan: note your preferences (pain management, presence of partner, music, early breastfeeding etc.).

· Discuss your birth wishes with the hospital team: Find out if they can accommodate your needs.

· Seek Doula support: a Doula can help you communicate your wishes clearly and support you emotionally.

These steps increase the chance of a respectful, safe and personalised birth, even where medical adjustments are necessary.

What are the differences between public and private hospitals for maternity care?

Public hospitals: generally offer comprehensive medical care at lower cost but can be busy with longer waiting times and variable facilities.

Private hospitals: often provide shorter waiting times, more modern facilities and more individualised care, but may not accept high-risk pregnancies and are usually more expensive; insurance coverage varies.

Your choice should consider medical risk, budget and personal preference. I’m happy to help you decide.

Doula Services

Where are the services offered?

Doula services are offered in person in Ningbo. Many consultations and preparation sessions can take place online by video call or phone. Trauma work is an exception and must be in person due to the use of bilateral stimulation and safety considerations.

How do we get started?

We begin with a non-binding initial consultation to get to know one another, discuss your questions and determine the right form of support. We then agree on the service, sign an agreement and arrange payment.

Can my partner participate?

Absolutely. Partners are warmly welcome. It is important they are well prepared to support the birthing person. Partners often benefit themselves from the doula’s guidance and motivation. We discuss how best to involve them.

Do I need to prepare or bring anything?

No special items are required — bring your questions, curiosity and openness; everything else will be worked through in the sessions.

When is the best time for a preparation course?

Aim to have your birth plan finalised by about 35–36 weeks so it can be discussed with the hospital. A good starting point is from 28 weeks — late enough that your pregnancy is concrete, early enough for thorough preparation.

When is the best time to book a doula?

Doula support can be helpful from early pregnancy onward. You can engage a doula whenever questions, uncertainties or fears arise.

If you plan to have a doula present for your birth, book early as we have limited spots availble.

What does the service cost?

Costs depend on the chosen service and time involved. A price list is available and package options or discounts may apply. The goal is to find support that fits each family’s needs.

Is a doula also financially worthwhile?

Although some hesitate because of cost, good doula support can save money in the long run by

· reducing stress, avoiding some interventions,

· improving breastfeeding success (less formula expense)

· guiding· efficient equipment purchases

· the emotional bond and a positive start are, however, invaluable

Can a doula also accompany a caesarean birth?

Yes. Planned or unplanned caesareans can be prepared similarly to vaginal births. We discuss your wishes and the operating theatre procedure. A doula’s presence is possible and can provide emotional, practical and organisational support before, during (if permitted) and after the operation.

Trauma Work

I am not in Ningbo, can trauma work be done online?

The initial intake (history and first assessment) can take place online. The actual trauma work that uses bilateral stimulation must be in person for safety reasons.

I do not live in Ningbo — can I still work with you?

Yes: the first meeting can be online, but for trauma work you would need to come to Ningbo. It is possible to schedule multiple sessions over a short stay (for example three sessions across a weekend with approximately 24 hours between sessions). I provide tips for travel and accommodation to make this as low-stress as possible.

How does trauma work proceed?

Adults: typically 3–5 sessions depending on the case. We begin with intake and psycho-education, stabilisation if necessary, then trauma work with bilateral stimulation, and conclude with review and addressing remaining triggers.

Infants / young children: initial work with caregivers to ensure stabilisation and safety, then the trauma integrative work with the child as indicated.

How does I.B.T.® work?

I.B.T.® (Integrative Attachment-Based Trauma Work) combines psycho-education, stabilisation techniques and bilateral stimulation to safely integrate unprocessed memories. The aim is to resolve old trauma, promote emotional regulation and strengthen attachment. Work with caregivers builds safety before primary trauma work with the individual or child.

Is I.B.T.® safe during pregnancy?

Yes — and it can be particularly helpful. I.B.T.® during pregnancy can address unresolved trauma that would otherwise increase stress or anxiety, strengthen emotional regulation and support bonding with the unborn child. The method is always adapted to ensure safety and well-being of mother and child.

This is how working with me can feel:

"I treasure deeply"

"Giving birth in a foreign country where I didn’t speak the language was daunting, but having Andrea by my side gave me peace of mind. Even when my birth didn’t go as planned, her gentle guidance helped me make the right decisions, turning the experience into something I now treasure deeply."

Raquelle & Gregon, South Africa

"Plethora of Knowledge"

"Andrea was an amazing doula with a plethora of knowledge that helped prepare my husband and I for the birth of our first child. With her support and advocacy, I was able to deliver a happy and healthy baby."

Jennifer & Hulon, USA

"Moments of laughter"

"Andrea was such a great resource before and during both of our births. She made sure we knew all of our options and felt comfortable throughout the process. What could have been two stressful experiences went smoothly and had moments of laughter thanks to this amazing woman."

Sarraha & Bryan, USA

"Successful VBAC"

"In Mexico doctors had told my wife that her body wasn’t suited for natural birth. After her first birth by C-section, we never imagined a vaginal birth could be possible..But with Andreas support and the medical team’s approval, my wife was able to have a successful VBAC and experience the joy of a natural birth."

Maria & Carlos, Mexico

"Brightest Memory"

"I could not imagine that Andrea would help so much! Even though it was our second baby, it was very difficult and painful. And my brightest memories from it are her eyes (very deep and hypnotic) and my husband’s hand holding me.."

Marina & Yuri, Russia

"Peace of Mind"

"We had such a wonderful and supportive experience with Andrea. She made sure we understood everything that was happening and kept my husband informed and involved throughout the process. Her calm presence, knowledge, and advocacy gave us peace of mind and made all the difference in our birth experience. I would highly recommend her services to anyone looking for someone who truly listens, understands your wishes, and stands by you throughout the journey.."

Jessica & Johann, South Africa