What is a doula?
You probably have heard the word "doula" before, but maybe you aren't quite sure what exactly it is that doulas do. In short, a doula is a trained labor support professional. Doulas provide emotional and physical support duing labor, as well as childbirth education, and being your birth vision advocate.
Doulas can provide a positive impact on the birth process by helping with hands-on comfort measures, easing any fears surrounding birth, and ensuring your partner is involved as they'd like to be with the birth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you support all types of birth?
Heck yes! I support home births, hospital births, and births at birthing centers. I will advocate for you if you want an unmedicated birth or medicated. I will support your birth vision with no judgment and ensure you feel safe and comfortable at all times. This is your birth!
Does a doula replace my partner?
Absolutely not! A doula is there to complement your partner's support, not replace it. Together, your partner and doula create a powerful support team that works in harmony to ensure you feel safe, confident, and well-cared for during your birthing experience. Doulas are trained to understand the stages of labor and can suggest helpful positions and comfort measures. This allows your partner to focus on being present and supportive, without the pressure of remembering everything.
Also - labor can be long! If your partner needs to rest or step away for a moment, I will remain by your side, ensuring you are never alone.
How does a doula support me if I plan to have an epidural?
If you plan to have an epidural, I will support you throughout your labor and birth through education and preparation, emotional support, comfort techniques, positioning assistance, advocacy, and support during pushing. Having an epidural doesn’t replace the need for emotional and physical support—it simply changes the approach. I will remain by your side, ensuring you feel empowered, comfortable, and well-supported every step of the way.
What if I have a scheduled ceseran? How would a doula help?
Whether your C-section is planned or happens unexpectedly, I am here to support you every step of the way. My role as your doula is to provide emotional, physical, and informational support, ensuring you feel calm, informed, and empowered throughout the process.
For Planned C-Sections: We can spend time beforehand preparing you emotionally and practically, discussing what to expect during surgery and recovery. I can help you create a gentle cesarean birth plan that aligns with your preferences, like immediate skin-to-skin contact if possible, breastfeeding support, and meaningful first moments with your baby.
For Unplanned C-Sections: If your birth plan changes unexpectedly, I am here to provide reassurance and help you navigate those changes with confidence and calm. I can support you and your partner emotionally, answer questions, and help you process the experience in real time. If permitted, I may be able to join you in the operating room to offer calming support, or I can be ready to assist you in recovery—helping with initial bonding, breastfeeding, and making sure you feel nurtured and informed.
Regardless of how your birth unfolds, my commitment is to ensure you feel heard, respected, and cared for. Your experience matters, and I am here to support your choices and help make your birth journey as positive and empowering as possible.
What if my pregnancy becomes high risk?
If your pregnancy is considered high-risk, I still provide valuable support throughout your journey. While medical care from your healthcare provider will be crucial, I can offer emotional support, evidence-based information, and advocacy during medical appointments and the birthing process. I can help you understand medical procedures, provide comfort measures, and work with you to create a birth plan that aligns with your medical needs and personal preferences.