What is a birth doula?
A doula is a person who provides non-medical physical, informational, and emotional support during pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum period. Doulas may help you prepare a birth plan. They may offer information, understanding, and encouragement during pregnancy. At your labor/birth the doula will be there continuously and will assist with comfort measures, be there for emotional support, and offer information that can help you make decisions about your birth process. You can read more about
Why should I hire a birth doula?
Women who have continuous support during labor are- • 28% less likely to have a cesarean section • 31% less likely to use synthetic oxytocin to speed labor • 9% less likely to use any pain medication • 34% less like to rate their childbirth experience negatively
Will a doula replace your partner?
Some people worry that a doula will replace their partner. This is never my goal! As a doula, I am there to help partners participate as they are comfortable. not all partners want to hands on and sometimes they too like to take a break and know that the laboring person will never be left alone. I can teach partners how to assist in whatever capacity they feel comfortable. Additionally, I am there for the partner's emotional and informational support. Here is an article on Dads and Doulas.
If I really trust my provider, should I still consider outside help?
A doula is not there to replace your provider; we're part of the team. In contrast, doulas compliment the work of your provider through continuous support. Doctors and hospital staff have many tasks to complete and obligations to fulfill with other patients. Even if your doctor and hospital staff are completely on board with your birth plan, you will find that they do not have time to stay in the room with you as you labor. A doula fills in this gap and provides constant care to the mom and her birth partner. Even if you are planning a home birth, a doula can still be a very helpful addition to your midwife and their assistant as well.
What doesn't a birth doula do?
A doula will not apply their own birth philosophy and beliefs on her client's birth experience. A doula adamantly supports their client's informed decisions and birth plans. She does not perform medical procedures, give medical advice, make medical decisions for clients, or deliver the baby.
Do I have to have a 'natural' (without pain medication) birth to have a doula?
No. A doula should never make you feel guilty for choosing to labor or birth in your own way. Doulas support you through any decision and help enhance any type of labor whether it is medicated, unmedicated, vaginal, or cesarean. Birth doulas provide you with the necessary information and birthing tools to make the best decisions for your birth no matter what your goals are for your labor and delivery.
What does a postpartum doula do?
Postpartum doulas are for helping ease your transition with a new baby from planning for their arrival to practical help around the house and finding the resources you need when you need them in that new baby bubble. We come with zero judgement and leave you feeling supported in the way that you need in that transitional time.
