Meet Jennifer R. Hunter
Birth Planning Services in Monmouth, Ocean and Middlesex County
Create a Confident, Calm & Personalized Birth Experience
At Hunter’s Haven Doula Services, we believe that every birthing experience is unique—and so should be your birth plan. Whether you’re preparing for an unmedicated (natural) birth, want to understand what a birth plan really is, or need help recognizing early birth signs, we’re here to guide you through each decision and detail. We proudly serve families in Monmouth, Ocean and Middlesex Counties, helping you prepare for one of the most meaningful days of your life.
What Is a Birth Plan?
If you’ve been wondering, “What is a birth plan?”, here’s a simple answer: it’s a written document that outlines your preferences for labor, delivery, and postpartum care. From pain management choices to newborn procedures, a birth plan communicates your wishes to your care team, ensuring your voice is heard during every stage of childbirth.
A birth plan may include:
● Preferred natural birth methods or medical interventions
● Who you want in the delivery room
● Positions you’d like to labor in
● Your thoughts on epidurals or cesareans
● Immediate postpartum preferences (skin-to-skin contact, breastfeeding, etc.)
Our expert doulas in Monmouth, Ocean, and Middlesex Counties work closely with you to craft a thoughtful and realistic natural birth plan in New Jersey—one that reflects your values while leaving room for flexibility if things don’t go exactly as planned.
Why You Need a Birth Plan
Having a birth plan does more than guide your labor—it empowers you.
● Reduces stress: Knowing your options and making choices in advance eliminates last-minute decision-making.
● Promotes clear communication: Everyone from your partner to your medical team understands your desires.
● Respects your values: Whether you're hoping for a natural birth or prefer a more medically supported approach, your preferences are respected.
● Ensures preparedness: A comprehensive birth plan covers not only delivery but also how you’d like to handle the early postpartum hours.
At Hunter’s Haven, our team will walk you through every possible scenario—from signs labor is beginning to baby’s first moments.
Recognizing Early Birth Signs
It’s important to be able to identify the birth signs that labor may be near. Knowing what to expect can reduce anxiety and help you take appropriate action at the right time.
Common early signs of labor include:
● Regular and increasingly intense contractions
● Back pain or cramping
● Bloody show or mucus plug release
● Water breaking
● A sudden burst of energy or “nesting”
We educate expecting families in Monmouth, Ocean, and Middlesex Counties on how to monitor these symptoms and know when it’s time to head to the hospital or call your doula.
Designing a Natural Birth Plan
Are you planning a natural birth in New Jersey? You are not alone—many women in Middlesex, Ocean, and Monmouth Counties are embracing more holistic birthing experiences.
Your natural birth plan might include:
● Laboring at home as long as possible
● Breathing and relaxation techniques
● Hydrotherapy or aromatherapy
● Doula support instead of medication
● Avoiding routine interventions unless medically necessary
Our role at Hunter’s Haven Doula Services is to help you create a realistic, empowering natural birth experience while offering full support—emotionally, physically, and logistically.
Support for All Types of Birth Plans
No two birth journeys are alike. Whether you are planning a water birth, VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean), medicated birth, or adoption/surrogacy experience, your birth plan will be crafted to match your circumstances and your choices.
We also help you:
● Understand hospital policies in your county
● Coordinate with your midwife or OB-GYN
● Prepare your birth partner for their supportive role
● Create backup plans for unexpected situations
Families in Ocean, Monmouth, and Middlesex County trust us to provide clear, respectful guidance no matter what their birth story looks like.
Birth Planning in Monmouth, Ocean & Middlesex
Birth planning services are fully personalized to the hospitals, birth centers, and care providers in your area. We know how each facility operates and will help you align your birth plan with your chosen location’s policies while still advocating for your wishes.
Beyond the Birth Plan: Postpartum Planning Matters Too
Your birth plan doesn’t stop at delivery. We help you prepare for what comes next:
● Delayed cord clamping
● Golden hour bonding
● Feeding preferences (breast, bottle, or combo)
● Support in the early days at home
Your plan will reflect both your birthing and parenting goals, helping you feel fully supported during every transition.
Beyond the Birth Plan: Postpartum Planning Matters Too
Every birthing journey deserves intention, planning, and support. Whether you’re in Monmouth, Ocean, or Middlesex County, our experienced doulas are here to help you create a comprehensive birth plan that brings clarity, confidence, and calm to your experience.