FAQ

A doula is a trained professional who provides emotional, physical and informational support to new and expectant parents before, during and after birth, as well as in the early postpartum period.

A doula is a professional pregnancy companion whose goal is to help families have a safe, healthy and positive labor experience.

The doula advocates for the client’s wishes as expressed in their birth plan, prenatal conversations, and intrapartum discussion, by encouraging the client/partner to ask questions of the care provider and to express their preferences and concerns.

The doula helps the client/partner incorporate changes in plans if and when the need arises, and enhances the communication between the client and care provider.

The advocacy role does not include the doula speaking instead of the client or making decisions for the client. The advocacy role is best described as support, information, and mediation or negotiation.

Doulas are usually trained to support all kinds of births - at home, hospital or birthing center. Families who want to try "natural births" (meaning without medication) are sometimes more likely to hire a doula, but doulas are there to support clients no matter what their decisions are about pain medication and other aspects of labor.

If you think you might want or need additional support and coaching in the delivery room, a doula could be a good choice for you. If you have your heart set on a specific birth plan, a doula can be a good option. A doula will support you and your partner to advocate for yourself if you're uncomfortable doing so.