Doula FAQ
When I tell people I’m a doula, I usually get a strange look followed by, “Do-what?” Because of this common confusion, I’ve written up a brief FAQ about doulas for those of you who are unfamiliar with the concept.
What is a doula?
A doula is a person, usually a female, who provides emotional, physical, and informational support to a woman and her family during pregnancy and childbirth. Doulas are usually formally trained (but not necessarily certified), and are well-informed on the physiological and emotional aspects of childbirth.
What are the benefits of hiring a doula?
Hiring a doula has a lot of amazing benefits. Below are just a few reasons why people hire doulas. (Taken from DONA International.)
- tends to result in shorter labors with fewer complications
- reduces negative feelings about one’s childbirth experience
- reduces the need for Pitocin (a labor-inducing drug), forceps or vacuum extraction and cesareans
- reduces the mother’s request for pain medication and/or epidurals
Research shows parents who receive support can…
- feel more secure and cared for
- are more successful in adapting to new family dynamics
- have greater success with breastfeeding
- have greater self-confidence
- have less postpartum depression
- have lower incidence of abuse
While hiring a doula doesn’t guarantee a perfect birth, the benefits are clear.
Does the doula take the place of the father or partner?
No! Many fathers and partners, especially those experiencing parenthood for the first time, often feel reassured and comforted by the presence of an educated supporter. Doulas enhance the birth experience for everyone involved, fathers included!
Do doulas only attend homebirths or drug-free births?
No. Doulas are trained to support women and their partners through a variety of birthing situations and outcomes. Whether you birth at home, in a hospital, or a birthing center - with or without drugs - doulas are there to support you no matter what your decision.
I’ve never heard of this before! Is this a new thing?
Women have actually been attending each other in labor and birth for centuries. Although this profession is only now gaining recognition and popularity in the Western world, it’s an ancient and time-honored tradition amongst many cultures.
So, is a doula a medical professional?
Strictly speaking, no. While some doulas are indeed midwives, nurses, or doctors, medical tasks and diagnosis are out of the scope of practice for doulas. Doulas are not specifically trained or certified to conduct any medical tests or procedures, including vaginal examinations or blood pressure readings.
