What is a doula?

Today, the term "doula" refers to a trained and experienced professional who offers continuous physical, emotional, and informational support to a pregnant person (and their partner, if applicable) before, during, and after birth. In my opinion, a doula is someone who provides a listening ear long before labor or birth. I aim to build a relationship with pregnant individuals and support them through the challenging stages, continuing to assist them even after they have returned home. I encourage you to reach out to me rather than relying solely on web searches to help ease your mind. The term is also used to describe a trained and experienced professional who offers emotional and practical support during the postpartum period.

It's important to note that a doula is not equivalent to a midwife. A doula is not qualified to perform any medical procedures, including but not limited to cervical checks, blood pressure checks, fetal heart rate monitoring, or delivering/catching the baby. A doula does not replace a healthcare provider such as a midwife or OB.

What support does a doula provide the pregnant person?

1. Informational Support: A doula can keep you and your partner informed at every stage of your pregnancy and postpartum journey. They can help you find evidence-based information about various options during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum. A doula can also provide information on recovery and your newborn's development, assisting you with evidence-based information as you navigate parenthood. It's important to note that a doula is an unbiased resource, not a primary source.

2. Emotional Support: A doula offers continuous comforting presence, providing reassurance and encouragement. They exhibit a caring and empathetic attitude, helping you and your partner work through fears and self-doubt about pregnancy and birth. Additionally, a doula can support you emotionally by debriefing after birth.

3. Physical Support:

- Massage and counterpressure

- Suggesting position changes for optimal labor progression

- Creating a calming environment

- Providing water therapy (bath, shower)

- Assisting with hydration and feeding

- Offering hands-on infant feeding support

A doula can provide anything you need to feel physically comfortable during your birth.

How does your doula support partners?

As a doula, my role is to provide support and education to partners so that they can confidently assist during the birthing process. I offer prenatal education about childbirth, help partners manage their fears and concerns, facilitate conversations between the couple, teach pain management techniques, and ensure partners are nourished and hydrated. Additionally, I provide reassurance and comfort during labor and educate partners on how to support a mother during the postpartum period. Finally, I offer guidance on newborn care and provide education on supporting a pregnant person's recovery after childbirth.Teaching them Pain management techniques