What is a doula?

I can remember when I was pregnant with my first baby feeling so nervous to talk to my husband about getting a doula. Our daughter was a surprise and it felt like one expense after another during the time. I will never forget the feeling of relief I felt when my husband asked, “What do you think about getting a doula?”

He went on to talk about how he wanted a doula just as much for himself, as he did for me. With it being our first baby, neither of us knew exactly what to expect. Now looking back, it felt like we could have read every book and taken every class, and still been surprised at what true childbirth was. 

Does this resonate with you?

You have done the research to find the provider who will deliver your baby. You have done the research on what facility you will deliver at, whether that’s a birth center, at home, or at the hospital. However, have you done the research and found your doula? You might be asking yourself, what is a doula? What does a doula do for me in my pregnancy and birth? 

A doula is a non medical professional who is highly trained and knowledgeable in supporting labor and birth. Doulas provide physical and emotional support, as well as education in evidence based care. A doula does not provide clinical support or do procedures. 

A doula never pressures a client to make certain choices in their pregnancy and birth, but rather goes over risks and benefits, so that their client can make the best decision for them!

So what can they do, and how will that help with supporting your individual birth experience? 

Prenatally, doulas typically meet with their clients at least once, ideally a few times. During this time birth preferences will be discussed, as well as preparation and education for labor and birth. 

Preparing for childbirth mentally and physically is very important. No matter if you are having an unmedicated or medicated birth, and whether it's at home or in the hospital, birth is intense. It is extremely vital to feel educated and empowered in your choices going into your birth.

A doula is a great support person to have on your team to make sure that throughout your pregnancy you feel supported, empowered, and educated. 

During labor, doulas provide physical and mental support. Doulas provide comfort measures such as massage, counter pressure, words of affirmation, help with breath work, and so much more. 

Your doula is also there to help advocate for you and hold space when it is needed. During your pregnancy you took the time to educate yourself in what you do want, and do not want. During labor it is so helpful to have a clear minded support person who is able to advocate for and support those decisions in the birth space. 

A doula is there to support both the birthing person AND their partner. A doula is never there to take the place of your husband, wife, partner, or main support person. One amazing way a doula can support a birth is allowing partners to have that guilt free break, and know that mama is still being taken care of as she labors on. Whether that break is 15 minutes to use the bathroom and get a snack, or an hour to get rested so you can enjoy getting to see your sweet baby be born, a doula is a great resource for mama and partner. 

Most birth doulas offer a postpartum visit or two. This is a sweet and vulnerable time to be able to talk about your birth story. What about your birth did you love? Are there any moments you have been dwelling on that feel traumatic? Walking through your birth story with a person who was there can feel so beautiful, tender, and healing. 

Postpartum visits with your doula are also a great time to check in about the adjustment of having a baby, how breastfeeding is going, and talk about what other support you may feel like you need postpartum. 

Other questions you may be asking yourself:

Should I have a doula if I am planning a medicated birth? 

Yes!! The benefits of having a doula are there no matter if you are having a medicated or unmedicated birth. The need for your partner to feel supported is still important and vital. The need to feel educated, empowered, and advocated for is still there no matter how you birth your baby. 

Do I need a doula if I have had a baby previously? 

Every pregnancy and birth journey is different. You know what to expect in terms of the baseline for your journey, but that does not mean it is going to be the exact same. A doula is still a significant support person to add to your team, no matter how many babies you have had!

My biggest wish is for everyone to be able to have a doula. I always tell potential clients, even if you do not end up hiring me, I hope for you to find an experienced and caring doula who fits your needs. 

Sweet wishes and blessings over your pregnancy and birth!