Doula FAQs

Answering Your Questions

Are doulas only useful if I am planning an unmedicated birth?

Absolutely not! The presence of a doula is useful no matter if you are planning an epidural or cesarean. Although many moms report needing fewer medical interventions with the use of a doula, there are times when interventions are necessary. No two labors are alike and as things come up during labor I will educate you so that you can make an informed decision about what is best for you and your baby. I can also help if medications are inadequate because even with medication there is likely to be some discomfort. As for a mom facing a cesarean a doula is helpful by providing constant support and encouragement. This frees up the partner to attend to baby knowing Mom is not alone in the OR.

What does a doula not do?

A doula is not a medical professional. Although they have a lot of training with birth a doula does not give medical advice, but will help you ask your doctors/midwife the right questions. A doula does not make medical decisions on your behalf but will give you your options.

How is a doula different from a labor & delivery nurse?

Nurses provide support when they can. Research shows that nurses spend about 31% of a mom's labor in the room with her. 12% of that 31% spent in the room, the nurse provided support to the mom. Nurses have a lot of responsibilities. They just do not have the time it takes to give continuous support. Nurses also have shift changes. Doulas are with you for the entire birth experience.

What about my partner? Why do I need a doula?

I encourage and incorporate partners to be involved and participate during labor and birth. My role as a doula is never to take place of partners in labor. Having a doula allows the partner to support mom emotionally. Think of your doula as your right hand and your partner as your left hand. A doula allows the partner to enjoy the entire experience without the added pressure of being everything to mom. The partner also doesn't have to remember every detail they learned in childbirth class. I am there for the partners as well. For example, if the partner wants to take a quick nap they will be rest assured that mom has someone taking care of her every need. I am there for the birthing couple!

How do I choose a doula?

The most importanat key to finding a doula is choosing someone that you are comfortable with. Childbirth is a very personal and emotional time. You certainly want someone who is certified and has experience but keep in mind that the right doula for you has more to do with how connected you feel with that person and less to do with how long they have been a doula.

What does Spinning Babies mean?

The practice of spinning babies is showing you positions to do at home that encourages baby to be in the optimal position before labor begins. If your baby is breech, transverse or face up Spinning Babies is vital to getting your baby to turn into the best position possible. I will not be manually turning your baby like an ECV procedure.

What are the benefits of using a doula?

31% decrease in the use of pitocin
39% decrease in the risk of c-section
10% decrease in the use of any medications for pain relief
14% decrease in risk of newborns being admitted into NICU
34% decrease in risk of being dissatisfied with the birth experience
38% decrease in baby's risk of low five minute apgar score
12% increase in spontaneous vaginal birth