Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I hire a Doula?

Benefits of Hiring a Doula

Labor 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*

https://www.dona.org/what-is-a-doula/benefits-of-a-doula/

What does a Doula Do?

Doulas provide:

PHYSICAL SUPPORT

Position ideas for comfort and labor progression cross over with hands-on comfort measures like comforting touch, counter pressure, breathing techniques and other “doula magic” for families. A doula’s skilled hands and positioning tools can often help a malpositioned baby find its way through the pelvis and into the birthing parent’s arms.

EMOTIONAL SUPPORT

Doulas help families to feel supported, easing the emotional experience of birth and also helping to create a space where the hormones of labor can work at their best. Whether a birth is completely unmedicated or medically very complex, every family can benefit from nurturing and connection at this tender, incredible time in their lives.

PARTNER SUPPORT

Whether it’s a romantic partner, a friend or another family member like the baby’s grandma, the birth partner’s experience matters in birth. Our doulas are there to support every birth partner in being as involved as they’d like with the birth. Physical and emotional support make a huge 

difference for everyone involved.

EVIDENCE BASED INFORMATION AND ADVOCACY

DONA International doulas are trained to help families connect with evidence-based resources so they can ask great questions and make informed decisions about their births. Our doulas serve as a bridge of communication between women and their providers, lifting them up to help them find their voices and advocate for the very best care.

Can you deliver my baby?

NO.

The DONA International certified doula does not perform clinical or medical tasks such as taking blood pressure or temperature, fetal heart tone checks, vaginal examinations, or postpartum clinical care.

Doulas do not diagnose or treat any medical condition, and do not replace care required by a doctor, midwife, and or nurse.

I want to have a natural birth can you tell my doctor to do what I say?

No.

I will give you information needed for you to make informed choices during your labor and delivery, I do not speak for you or go against any medical advice given. I will give you and your partner the tools needed to create a plan for your birth, and explain how to communicate those with your care providers, however, I can not speak for you, or make any medical decisions on your behalf.

I was told exercise is bad to do while pregnant, is this true?

If a physician or care provider has told you to refrain from exercise, I can not give you workouts or  during that time, as they may have determined that exercise would not be safe for you or your baby.

However, if you are cleared for exercise by your physician, and through our consultation we determine you have no contraindications for exercise, e.g. a healthy normal pregnancy, it is absolutely safe, for you and your baby to exercise.

The exercises I prescribe are tailored to each individual, all exercises are low/no impact. And very safe for the prenatal client.

Are Doulas welcome in Hospitals?

Yes.

It is the doula’s goal to establish good working relationships with the doctors, midwives and medical staff of her expectant families. Communication, respect, professionalism, and trust create a supportive birthing team.