Frequently Asked Questions

Does a doula make a difference?

Having doula support can help:

increase the natural production of oxytocin
increase mobility during labor
increase self-esteem
decrease pain
decrease anxiety
Shorten labor
decrease use of an epidural
decrease use of extra interventions
decrease c-section rates
improve infant outcomes
higher birth experience satisfaction

What does a doula do?

A doula is a birth professional who does not replace anyone on your birth team, but can fill in the gaps between your provider and birth partner. A doula can help you figure out what questions to ask your provider, give you additional options and approaches to pregnancy/birth concerns, facilitate communication between everyone surrounding your care. Overall, a doula can help advocate for your birth wishes in order for you to have a positive experience.

Does a doula replace my primary care provider?

A doula does not replace the care from your OB/GYN or midwife. A doula does not perform medical procedures or clinical tasks. They also do not give medical advice or make decisions for the client. But a doula does help you find evidence-based information about different options, encourages you to ask your provider questions, and supports your decisions.

Does a doula take the place of my birth partner?

Doulas can encourage partners to help support the mother physically, mentally, and emotionally, often giving them tips or advice that they wouldn’t have thought of otherwise. They can provide support to birth partners themselves by providing them with breaks and self-care opportunities. Doulas and birth partners can work as a team to offer the best support for the mother. They can help by enhancing the partner’s role and involvement, without taking over.

Isn't a doula only helpful for one type of birth?

Absolutely Not! A doula can be beneficial for births:

At a hospital
At home
At a birth center
Unmedicated
With an epidural
During an induction
With a planned or unplanned cesarean