What is a doula, and why would you need one?
Bringing a baby into the world is one of life’s most profound experiences! It’s beautiful, transformative, and can even be a little overwhelming. That’s where a doula comes in!
“Is that like a midwife?” “Do you deliver babies?”
A doula is a trained professional who provides continuous physical, emotional, and informational support for a family before, during, and after labor. Unlike medical professionals such as doctors or midwives, doulas are not responsible for clinical care. Instead, they focus entirely on ensuring that families feel informed, empowered, and supported every of their pregnancy and birth journey!
Doulas are trained through a certifying organization which includes a variation of reading, testing, application, and mentoring.
Doulas do not replace your partner or medical team - we support EVERYONE on your birth team so YOU feel empowered, calm, and cared for.
So, what does a doula do?
We get to know families during their pregnancy and work together to discuss birth desires and preferences.
prenatal support
During pregnancy, a doula helps parents prepare for birth by offering evidence-based information, helping them create a birth plan, and providing reassurance about what to expect. They are there to answer questions, address concerns, tell parents to avoid Googling things (ha!), and offer emotional support so you feel ready when it’s “baby time!”
labor and birth support
During labor, a doula is a calming presence. They use techniques like positioning suggestions, breathing guidance, counter-pressure, light massage, and words of encouragement to ease discomfort and promote a smooth labor experience!
Doulas also help partners stay involved and confident in their role as the primary support person! We make sure that the birth partner eats, drinks, and rests as needed, and we give THEM suggestions on things they can confidently do to help throughout labor.
advocacy
A doula helps the family communicate their wishes to the medical team, ensuring that their voice is heard. They don’t speak for the parents, but they do empower them to make informed decisions!
postpartum support
After birth, many doulas continue to provide support with with breastfeeding, newborn care, emotional recovery, and the transition into parenthood.
What type of births can doulas support?
ALL of them!
Hospital births
Home and birth center births
Epidural births
Unmedicated births
C-sections
Inductions
Whatever birth you choose, your doula is by your side!
Why would you need a doula?
Birth is full of unknowns, but having a knowledgeable and supportive person by your side can make all the difference! Research shows that having a doula can lead to:
Shorter labors
Lower likelihood of medical interventions and C-sections
A more positive birth experience
More than just statistics, doulas provide steady emotional support. Whether through encouragement, guidance, or a calming presence, they help make your birth experience one that feels empowering and supported.
**final photo above - yes, I am holding a new baby! It doesn’t happen often (I will NEVER ask a family to hold their brand new baby) BUT sometimes they ask me to, and I am absolutely thrilled to do so <3
Choosing to have a doula means choosing to be informed, prepared, and cared for throughout your journey! Because birth is not just about welcoming a baby - it’s also about how you experience and remember the process.
Interested in learning more?
Each birth story is different, but each one changes me in such a special way. No matter how you choose or are able to birth - that time is sacred and oh so beautiful. I would be happy to share in every bit of it and show it to you in images that you will always cherish.