Whether this is your first baby or you’ve been here before, exploring the world of doula support may be new territory for you. Here are some frequently asked questions to help you better understand the role of a doula and my approach specifically. 

Are doulas midwives?

No. Unlike midwives, doulas are not medical professionals, do not provide medical care or medical advice, and do not deliver babies. Doulas are community care workers who support the pregnant/birthing person and their partners in the journey of pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. That said, doulas often interact with their client’s care team as they advocate for the client’s needs and wishes and help clients understand their medical options. Full-spectrum doulas may also support other pregnancy outcomes like miscarriage and loss, abortion, surrogacy, adoption, preconception, and more. 

Do I need a doula if I already have a supportive partner?

It’s really a personal preference. While it’s of course possible to have an empowered birth experience without a doula, research shows that having the support of a doula positively impacts birth outcomes. Also, even the most supportive partner can get fatigued and overwhelmed in the birth space.

Though doulas certainly cannot guarantee a particular birth outcome, they provide dedicated emotional, physical, and informational support.

Will you be there with me the whole time I’m in labor?

Under typical circumstances (ie, not a high-risk pregnancy, no premature rupture of membranes, no complications), pregnant people planning to deliver at a birth center or hospital birth will usually labor at home until contractions get stronger, longer, and closer together. Depending on the path your labor takes, I may support you at home and then rejoin you later in your birthing space whether that’s the hospital, birthing center, or home. I can be by your side for up to 16 consecutive hours. After that, I’ll arrange for a backup doula to take my place if that’s aligned with your wishes.

Will you support me in having an epidural? Will you support me in having an unmediated birth?

Yes and yes. I’m not here to sway you to make particular birth choices. When you need guidance, my goal is to help you make decisions that come from a place of information, confidence, and intuition rather than fear or pressure.

How do I choose a doula?

There are many ways to choose a doula. For some, it may come down to experience and qualifications. For others, it may be about shared culture, spirituality, and life experience. And for others (like me!), the most important thing is a gut-feeling, a vibe check, and a sense of ease–someone who just makes you feel good. We’ll meet a ahead of time to make sure that I can meet your needs and that we’re a good match.

What if I have a C-section?

My ability to support you in the OR for unexpected or scheduled c-sections will depend on what each hospital allows. If I can be there and you want my in-person support (and your c-section falls within the on-call period) I will be there! And, of course, I’ll support you prenatally and postpartum as planned.

Do you support home births?

Yes, I’m happy to support home births and can also offer my personal experience with having one if you’d like. However, I am only comfortable supporting home births if a trained midwife will be present. I do not offer doula support for unassisted free births, though I am happy to help postpartum.

What if I go into labor early?

Because life happens and scheduling support for multiple births is complex, I can only guarantee my presence in your birth space from 38 weeks onward. If you go into labor early, I will aim to be present for you and will send a backup doula if you wish. Our contract will have more details about what happens in the event of early labor or extenuating circumstances (ie, my illness or family emergency). 

Will you come to prenatal appointments with my OB or midwife?

My birth support package includes 3 visits that can be used for prenatal or postpartum support. One of these can include accompanying you to an appointment if you wish.

Can I meet you before choosing you to be my doula?

Of course! I offer complimentary consultations that you can book here.