What is a doula?
A doula is a trained professional who provides continuous physical, emotional and informational support to a mother before, during and shortly after childbirth to help her achieve the healthiest, most satisfying experience possible.
Birth doulas are trained to understand the normal process of labor and birth. A doula provides informational and emotional support, re-assuring both the woman and her support person. A doula helps a woman cope with labor by helping with relaxation and breathing techniques and offering suggestions for positions and other comfort measures. Birth doulas help women understand what is happening and her options during her birth.
Postpartum doulas are trained to assist in the period following the birth, providing education and non-judgmental support to help facilitate the transition to parenthood. Doulas may also provide hands on support with newborn care and feeding, meal preparation, household tasks, and care for older siblings so that a mother may rest and take care of herself.
What are the benefits of having a doula?
Labor doulas are statistically proven to improve outcomes:
31% decrease in the use of Piton
28% decrease in the risk of Cesarean Section
12% increase in the likelihood of a spontaneous birth
9% decrease in the use of any medications for pain relief
14% decrease in the risk of newborns being admitted to a special care nursery
34% decrease in the risk of being dissatisfied with the birth experience
Research of existing literature, shows that women who are properly supported during the postpartum period experience:
bond better with their babies
improved breastfeeding success
greater self-confidence
fewer cases of postpartum depression
a lower incidence of abuse
Source: DONA International Position Paper on “The Postpartum Doula’s Role in Maternity Care”, 2002, 2006
Can I have a doula and still get an epidural?
A doula offers physical comfort and emotional reassurance regardless of a woman's plan for pain medication. Doulas also offer informational support which can help a woman make decisions that are right for her birth. Should you decide to get an epidural, a doula will often stay with you to help you change positions throughout your labor. During the remainder of your labor, a doula will continue to be with you to answer any questions you have, give hand massages and create the most peaceful and experience as possible in your birthing space.
Will a doula replace my partner?
No. Doulas are trained professionals who assist the family with evidence-based knowledge, experience and non-judgmental support. They do not replace your partner or family, instead they work as a team with your chosen support system. It is often nice to have an extra support person in place so that your partner can take care of themselves (nap, eat, go to the bathroom) and be a better support person to you, without leaving you alone.
Do doulas attend cesareans?
Yes! Doulas support birthing persons through planned and unplanned cesarean. Sometimes, as your doula, they are allowed in the operating room. This is up to your doctor and anesthesiologist, but it is also up to you to advocate for this kind of support and ask.
Do doulas replace medical professionals?
The support from a doula is different from the care provided by a doctor, nurse, baby nurse or midwife. Doulas offer non-clinical support and care during pregnancy, labor, birth and postpartum. Doulas do not do physical exams, perform medical tasks, nor asses vital sign of mother or baby. If medical interventions become necessary, a doula can help a woman get the information she needs to make informed choices for her birth or baby. A doula does not make decisions for clients nor intervene in their clinical care.
What if I can’t afford a doula?
There are many ways to afford a doula. Please email me to talk to me about payment plans, sliding scales, and additional resources.