Frequently Asked Questions

We get questions all the time, and we love them! One of the most common questions we get and never get tired of answering… “What is a doula?”

What Do Doulas Do?

 

Birth doulas can:

  • Prepare and educate both you and your partner for pregnancy and birth

  • Create a unique birth plan that supports your wishes for labor and delivery

  • Stay by your side during labor and delivery, supporting you throughout the entire birth process

  • Coach and guide you through any emotional blocks or fears that might come up during birth

  • Create a safe and peaceful space with their energy, candles, aromatherapy, and music

  • Use massage, visualizations, meditation, breathwork, energy work, sounding, and movement to help with pain management and comfort

  • Advocate for the mother and her partner and help facilitate better communication between the mother and her caregiver

  • Reduce the possibility of Caesarean section

  • Reduce the need for pain medication and epidurals

  • Minimize the length of labor

  • Calm anxiety and reduce depression

  • Help with confidence and self-esteem

Postpartum doulas can:

  • Provide breastfeeding and bonding support

  • Help with house chores, light cleaning, errands, and cooking

  • Share information about baby care and infant massage

  • Nurture, massage, and care for the mother

  • Help care for the baby so you can rest, eat, and shower

What doulas don’t do:

  • Doulas are not medical professionals. They do not perform medical exams or tasks, diagnose conditions, or deliver babies.

  • Doulas do not project their views onto you, and they should never judge you or make you feel bad about the choices and decisions you make.

Originally written by Lovewell Birth Collective