Frequently Asked Questions

Doula - a word Greek in origin - means caregiver.  Doulas are 'trained professionals who provide continuous physical, emotional, and informational support to their client before, during, and shortly after childbirth to help them achieve the healthiest, most satisfying experience possible.' (DONA)

Doulas provide support through a variety of avenues. All are in addition to and collaborative with partner/family who are a part of the birthing experience.

Emotional support first and foremost focuses on you, but extends to the partner, family, friend, or others involved in the birthing process. Assisting in easing the emotions of birth can help to create a space where you can find calm empowerment in your own birth experience.

Physical support includes position ideas to provide comfort or to assist in the progression of labor. When requested, doulas can provide support through touch, including counter pressure, massage, and general comforting contact. These methods are also known to assist in self-correction of the baby prior to birth.

Supporting your birth partner, regardless of their relationship to you matters. Doulas support and encourage birth partners in being as involved as they'd like to be. Having support impacts everyone, making the experience better for all. 

As a DONA trained doula, I am also able to provide families with evidence-based resources so they know all of their options and feel empowered to make informed decisions throughout the pregnancy journey.  Serving as a bridge for communications between mom and her providers, I am able to amplify your wishes, help you through birth plan reflection and adjustment, and empower you to find your voice and advocate for the care you deserve. 

 Doulas are not medical providers. Medical care is provided by nurses, doctors, and midwives. Routine testing, questions related to changes in medical care, or medical results are not within the Doula role. For this reason, a doula will not provide medical advice. When appropriate, a doula may provide resources or suggest topics to discuss further with your medical provider. 

Doulas do not replace any member of your birth team (partner/friend/family). Doulas act in collaboration with you, your birth team, and medical care, to provide an atmosphere specifically focused on you.

The benefits of doula support through labor are well documented through both anecdotal and scientific evidence. Studies have shown a "very high number of positive birth outcomes when a doula was present. With their support, women were less likely to have pain-relief medications administered and less likely to have a cesarean birth. Women also reported having a more positive childbirth experience." (American Pregnancy Association)

The positive impact of a doula can also be seen in the reduction of medical interventions (DONA) such as: 

• 28% reduction in cesarean births
• 31% reduction in the use of oxytocin (used to quicken the birth process)
• 9% reduction in the use of pain medication
• 34% reduction in individuals rating their birth experience as being negative. 

Any setting! Doulas support you in the hospital, birthing center, or at home. While the specifics of care, comfort, and communication may vary depending on where you want to give birth, the role of the doula is the same - to ensure you feel supported and empowered in your birthing experience.