What is a birth doula?
According to WebMD, “A doula is a person who provides emotional and physical support to you during your pregnancy and childbirth. Doulas are not medical professionals. They don’t deliver babies or provide medical care. A certified doula has taken a training program and passed an exam in how to help pregnant women and their families during this exciting but challenging experience. You can read more about birth doulas here.
Why should I use a doula?
The American Pregnancy Association states “The goal of a doula is to help the mother experience a positive and safe birth, whether an unmedicated birth or a cesarean“. My goal is to offer non-judgemental, emotional, and physical support to you. This allows for your birthing partner and/or other loved ones to be more present when needed in other ways, but can also free them up for breaks and refreshment to endure with you throughout the process.
When should I hire a doula?
It is a good idea to hire a doula as early as possible in your pregnancy. This allows you to have enough time to get to know each other and to make plans for your pregnancy, labor, and birth. Your doula may also be able to help you find resources that will aid you throughout your journey.
What is the difference between a doula and a midwife?
According to the BUMP, “midwives and doulas seem similar since they’re both people (who aren’t OBs) who help women through labor. And they are both most commonly chosen by moms-to-be who go drug-free during their delivery. But their roles in the childbirth process are actually quite different.
A midwife is a health care provider, while a doula is more of a childbirth coach. You might choose to have a midwife instead of an OB for prenatal care and to deliver your baby—midwives can deliver babies in hospitals, birthing centers or even in your home. A doula, on the other hand, doesn’t replace your healthcare practitioner but rather can add extra services, such as helping you with techniques to manage pain during labor and even providing support and help during baby’s early days.”