Terms of service

 

Last Updated: February 2026

Overview

These terms govern the birth doula services provided by Tori Polson. By booking my services, you agree to these terms.

Services Provided

I provide birth doula support services including:

  • Free initial consultation (phone, video, or in-person)

  • Three prenatal sessions

  • 24-hour on-call support from 38 weeks gestation

  • Continuous labour and birth support

  • Immediate postpartum support (1-2 hours)

  • One postnatal debrief session

Scope of Practice

As a doula, I am not a medical professional and do not have clinical responsibilities during your birth. My role is to provide emotional, physical and informational support. I will not:

  • Listen to foetal heart rate

  • Take blood pressure measurements

  • Take your temperature

  • Conduct vaginal exams

  • Offer medical advice or prescribe treatment

  • Make medical decisions on your behalf

Booking and Payment

Payment Terms:

  • A deposit of 50% of the total fee is required to secure my services

  • The balance is due by 38 weeks gestation

  • I will not go on-call until full payment is received

  • Payment plans are available and can be arranged during our consultation

Cancellation and Refund Policy

Client Cancellation:

  • Cancellation more than 34 weeks before your due date: 50% refund of fees paid

  • Cancellation within 34 weeks of your due date: No refund

  • If you change your mind about wanting me to attend your birth after I go on-call (38 weeks): No refund

Doula Unavailability:

If I am unable to attend your birth due to unforeseen circumstances, or if I am delayed more than 1.5 hours after being called, I will refund the full labour and birth support component of my fees.

On-Call Period

I will be on-call for your birth from 38 weeks gestation until the birth of your baby, or earlier in the case of twin pregnancies (typically from 34 weeks, to be determined on a case-by-case basis).

During the on-call period:

  • I will have my phone on and available 24/7

  • I aim to arrive within 1.5 hours of being called, depending on location and circumstances

  • You can contact me via phone, text, or email at any time

Birth Support

I will meet you at the hospital or at your home (whichever is the intended place of birth) once active labour is established. I will stay with you throughout the birth process unless extraordinary circumstances intervene.

Please note: I have NO clinical responsibility and cannot advise you as to when you should go to the hospital. This is your choice, and if in doubt, take direction from your care provider.

Hospital Policies

Some hospitals have specific policies regarding support people in birth settings, particularly during caesarean births. If I am not allowed to be present in theatre due to hospital policy or in an emergency situation, I will do my best to stay with you as long as possible. If I cannot enter theatre or recovery, I will leave and return later in the day or the following day.

Backup Support

I limit the number of births I attend each month to ensure availability. However, if I am unavailable due to unforeseen circumstances, I may arrange backup doula support if one has been arranged. I will communicate openly with you about the situation.

Client Responsibilities

You agree to:

  • Inform me when labour begins

  • Contact me if you need support during the on-call period

  • Communicate openly about your preferences and needs

  • Inform me of any changes to your care plan or birth location

  • Notify me if you no longer require my services

Confidentiality

All information shared with me during our time together is confidential. I will not share details about your pregnancy, birth, or personal information without your explicit consent.

The only exception to confidentiality is if I have reason to believe there is risk of harm to you, your baby, or another person, in which case I am obligated to report this to the appropriate authorities.

Professional Conduct

I am committed to:

  • Supporting you in the way that feels right for you

  • Respecting your autonomy and personal birth plan

  • Working collaboratively with your partner and medical team

  • Providing evidence-based information to help you make informed decisions

  • Maintaining professional boundaries at all times

Liability

I hold Professional Indemnity and Public & Products Liability Insurance.

While I provide continuous support during labour and birth, I am not responsible for medical outcomes. I cannot and do not provide medical advice, diagnose conditions, or make clinical decisions.

Service Area

I provide services within 45 minutes of Eltham North, including surrounding suburbs. If you are located outside this area, please discuss with me during the consultation.

Changes to These Terms

I reserve the right to update these terms at any time. Any changes will be communicated to existing clients and updated on my website.

Contact

If you have any questions about these terms, please contact me:

Email: hello@toripolsondoula.com.au

By booking my services, you acknowledge that you have read, understood and agree to these Terms of Service.