What We Do

What Is A Doula?

A doula is an individual who understands the birth process and supports others as they make their own transition into parenthood. They usually meet with the expecting parent(s) during pregnancy, answering any questions that may arise, and helping them to prepare for labor and birth. Doulas also often provide postpartum support after the birth. A doula does not replace the partner or other parent but rather allows the birthing parent’s primary support person to be completely involved in the labor and birth.

During childbirth, a birth or labor doula will stay by the laboring person’s side offering reassurance and continuous support for both the birthing parent and their support partner that may be present. The birth doula will help the parent(s) get the information needed to make informed decisions regarding their care and help them communicate those decisions to their care providers. Doulas also work to ensure the laboring person is comfortable both physically and emotionally, assisting them with coping during labor as they work toward the birth they desire. Some birth doulas also offer assistance with breastfeeding after birth if the parent desires, aiding in bonding between the parent(s) and newborn(s), and often stay with the client for up to a few hours after birth. Doulas recognize childbirth as an important event in an individual’s life, an experience they will always cherish.

A postpartum doula helps with the transition and adjustment that comes with having a new addition to the family and the new (or recurring) role of motherhood. Postpartum services include instruction in newborn care, assistance with breastfeeding and infant feeding, and helping the new family with needs around the home.

There are many advantages to receiving this kind of continuous care and support. We invite you to check out the detailed article by Evidence Based Birth about the support of doulas, their significant impact on positive outcomes for not only the birthing parent but also infants, and what the research indicates regarding having the emotional and physical support of a doula. You can also download a one-page handout that summarizes the evidence-based research about doulas as well as listen to a podcast about doula support.