Frequently Asked Questions

What is a doula?

A birth doula provides emotional and physical support, along with resources and birth preparation to an expecting family prenatally, during birth and shortly after.

What types of births do doulas support?

Whether you want to give birth at home or by scheduled cesarean, birth doulas support ALL kinds of birth. Doulas can be found in hospitals and birth centers. Some doulas have "specialties" or certain styles that they bring to the table, meaning that they might be a better fit for a certain idea you have for your birth. Experience and additional training do come into play here. Doulas support any and all birth, from midwife-supported home births to birth center births to unmedicated hospital births to scheduled cesarean births.

What are the benefits of having a doula?

Birth doulas are statistically proven to improve outcomes:

31% decrease in the use of Pitocin
28% decrease in the risk of C-section
12% increase in the likelihood of a spontaneous vaginal birth
9% decrease in the use of any medications for pain relief
14% decrease in the risk of newborns being admitted to a special care nursery
34% decrease in the risk of being dissatisfied with the birth experience

Does a doula deliver babies?

Doulas are not medically trained -- they don't deliver babies, replace a doctor or a midwife, or play the role of a nurse.

When should I hire a doula?

It is never too early to hire a doula, so it is best to start the interview process as early as possible. The ideal time to hire one is 5-6 months before your estimated due date, but it is never too late in your pregnancy to consider hiring a doula. Most doulas book early and quickly; repeat birthing families often book their doula on the day their pregnancy is confirmed.

What services are provided before labor?

Plenty can done prior to childbirth, including: pregnancy and childbirth education, addressing questions and concerns, labor and birth options, birth plan guidance, baby registry assistance, high-risk pregnancy information, creating your birth environment, induction options, cesarean section planning, nursery staging and more.