FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

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” (DONA.org). There are two kinds of doulas: birth + postpartum. Birth doulas provide physical, emotional, and birth partner support before, during, and shortly after birth. Postpartum doulas provide emotional, practical, partner + sibling support in the time immediately following childbirth. Both will provide evidence-based information and advocate so that mom (and birth partner) can make well-informed decisions.

Who can benefit from hiring a doula?

Anyone and everyone! In less extravagant terms, a doula is like having a loving and supportive advocate who will listen, encourage, and care for you throughout one of the most transformative experiences of life! A doula’s job is not to offer her own opinions or replace the birth partner, but to provide unbiased information, offer suggestions for comfort measures in labor, and to empower the partner (if there is one!) to be the best support they can be! Doulas are advocates for their clients to feel informed, safe, and involved in the birth.

Is a doula a midwife?

A doula is NOT a midwife! Midwives are certified medical professionals involved in the clinical aspects of childbirth. Doulas do not handle any medical or clinical aspects of the labor and delivery process. We also do not prescribe medical treatment of any kind. As we like to say it, we deal with the waist up, and the doctors/midwives/nurses deal with the waist down! For more information on a doula’s scope of practice, please visit https://www.dona.org/what-is-a-doula/scope-and-ethics/.

When should I hire a doula?

It depends on the client, but it is a general prerequisite that you have already met with your medical provider prior to scheduling the first interview! This way, the doula can be in contact with the doctor/midwife/OB/GYN throughout the whole process.

Are you certified?

I am currently in training with DONA International, an incredible nonprofit organization that certifies doulas. I have received in-person training with a DONA-approved birth doula workshop, which includes basic childbirth education as well. I am also completing a DONA-approved basic breastfeeding education. Part of the certification process requires that I attend births and provide doula support to several clients, and that is what I am hoping to do!

What can I expect from a doula during labor?

Whatever you need me to do/be is what you’ll get! Beyond verbal encouragement, I can provide various comfort measures such as massage techniques, essential oils (more details upon inquiry), breathing + focus techniques and more! I can also run quick errands if needed, or grab a bite to eat if labor is long!