Doula Care FAQ

What exactly do you do?

During pregnancy, I will get to know you and your partner during our visits. I will learn what kind of support you want, help you explore your birthing options, assist you in writing a birth plan, and support your decisions. During labor and birth, I will provide whatever is needed by you and your partner. This may be comfort measures (such as breathing, massage, relaxation, movement, and positioning), emotional support, or "go-fer" services; fetching food, water, cool compresses, etc. I will also assist you in gathering information about the course of your labor and your options. I will join you in your labor as soon as you want my company and I will stay with you for your whole labor, providing you with continuous support and encouragement.

Doesn't the nurse do that?

Nurses working in hospitals can rarely provide the kind of continuous personal support that a doula provides because a) they do not have a personal relationship with the family before the birth, b) they have many other responsibilities, often for multiple women at one time, and c) they go home when their shift ends.

Can't my partner do that?

Partners usually appreciate the help of a doula as much as the birthing mother does. With the help and expertise of a doula, the pressure on the partner is decreased so that he or she can enjoy the birthing experience with confidence.

Does my doula replace my partner?

Absolutely not! My role is to support you as a birthing couple, not to take over for your partner. Partners often feel relieved when they can rely on a doula for help and are able to participate at their own comfort level. For those partners who want to play an active supporting role, the doula assists and guides them in effective ways to help the woman in labor. Of course, women without partners particularly appreciate the support of a doula.

I'm using a Nurse-Midwife, do I still need a doula?

Yes! Just like nurses, CNMs are busy with many varied tasks. The number of women giving birth in a hospital or birthing center is highly variable from day to day and night to night. On some nights, your CNM may not have any time to provide you with emotional or physical labor support because she is busy with so many birthing moms. Shift changes can bring further disruptions. When you hire a doula, you are certain that you will have the undivided attention of a skilled, compassionate support person throughout your entire labor - regardless of shift changes or how busy the hospital or birthing center is.

OK, I like the sound of this. What do I do next?

Give me a call and we'll set up a free consultation! 207-470-0456