Doula Care FAQs

HOW IS A DOULA DIFFERENT THAN A MIDWIFE?

Doulas and midwives make great partners. Doulas provide continuous non-medical informational, emotional and physical support. A midwife focuses on and monitors the medical aspects of the birth process and will typically not provide continuous support throughout labor and birth.AT WHAT POINT IN PREGNANCY SHOULD I HIRE A DOULA?It is typical to start interviewing doulas around 20 weeks. Your first prenatal appointment isn't until about 36 weeks, but I provide resources and support as soon as we sign our agreement, which can be helpful in early pregnancy.

HOW DOES A DOULA SUPPORT MY PARTNER?

Doula support does not stop at the mother. I am a part of your birth team and there to help assist not only the mother but the partner. I am able to give the partner tips to help mom stay comfortable. I can help the partner when they are tired. I can show the partner different physical comfort techniques to help mom.

IS A DOULA ONLY FOR "NATURAL BIRTHS"?

My job as a birth doula is to support and empower the mother to have the most positive birthing experience possible. This includes all types of birth; homebirth, hospital birth, and cesarean.

SHOULD I STILL TAKE CHILDBIRTH EDUCATION CLASSES IF I HAVE A DOULA?

While I will be able to provide resources and help you get answers to any of your birth questions, being fully prepared and understanding all that is occurring during pregnancy and birth empowers you to make informed choices. Any information you can add to your toolbox helps! I also provide 1 on 1 virtual and in-person childbirth education classes. Let me know if you are interested in learning more about them.

Informational Support

Advocacy Support

Emotional & Mental Support

Physical Support

Read more at Evidence for Doulas