"What's a Doula?"

Doula services are becoming more popular while increasing in demand. "What's a Doula?" is a question that I love to answer because it grants me the opportunity to shed light on any misconceptions regarding doula-hood, our scope of practice - pretty much meaning what we do and what we don't do, as well as share the value of having a doula present throughout their birth experience. Today's blog is intended to summarize all of these points, and to give you enough information so that you can to decide whether or not having a doula is the right option for you. 

Let's start with a brief explanation of a Doula's scope of practice. Our goal is provide support to the mother (and her spouse/partner) through-out labor and birth. As far as maternity care, there are Birth Doulas, and there are Postpartum Doulas, who's primary focus is to give support the mother after the birth of their baby. We'll talk a bit more about the role of a Postpartum Doula in just a moment. 

In short, Birth Doulas are hired by the family to provide emotional and physical support during the birthing process. Doulas work cohesively with the medical care provider in efforts to support the natural process and reduce the probability of undesired intervention. Doulas generally advocate for a natural birth but will support the mother in whichever method she chooses. Doulas share the responsibility of implementing the birth plan as closely as possible, as well as communicating the mother's wishes to medical staff and family members. We use what we've learned in our training as well as hands on experience to educate the mother and her partner on how we all can work together to have a positive experience. 

I'd also like to take a quick moment to share that no two Doulas are totally the same. This is why the interview/consultation service is so important. You'll want to make sure you and your Doula are a great match. With that being said, generally, your Doula is expected to be present prior to active labor and through out your baby's birth. During this time the Doula will be using various techniques that will help the mother cope with the sensations & surges that are normally experienced at that time. Doulas are trained to recognize all stages of labor, and to know when it's time to head to the hospital/birthing center, unless provisions were made for a home birth.

Most Doulas who will labor with the mother at the family's home prior to transitioning, along with being present during the birth. Other Doulas will meet the mother at the hospital and begin support at that time, along with being present during the actual birth. Your Doula's role is normally established during the interview/consultation. This is also a good determining factor as to whether or not that particular Doula is a good match for you. I'll be addressing more about how to chose your Doula in another blog that will be published soon. In the meantime, most Doulas will provide you with a contract, detailing the services that will be provided. 

Postpartum Doulas; also considered to be the greatest blessing/gift a new mom could receive, provide services that support mothers post-birth. Remember that services do vary among Doulas. However, you can expect to 1. get some sleep, and 2. Have a loving, caring woman who understands the importance of balancing self-care and bonding time with baby.

Postpartum Doula services range from helping with breast-feeding, to providing assistance with light house work. Some Postpartum Doulas offer special services, such as meal prepping and placenta-encapsulation. Postpartum Doulas are trained to sooth crying babies (and mommies), tend to multiples - twins and beyond, and have all of the skills required to step in during those moments of uncertainty.

Again, I highly encourage patiently going through the interview process to ensure that you hire the Doula that fits your needs. I truly believe that there is a Doula for every mother and that every mother deserves a doula, even the independent mother who's determine to catch her own baby (smile). If you have any questions related to this post or about services that I offer, I'd love to treat you to a delicious smoothie and have a light-hearted chat. To all of the new moms reading this, know that you have my support and I'm cheering for you wherever you are!