What Is A Doula? And Why You Should Hire One For Your Birth

Birth is a beautiful, natural process, but it's also full of uncertainties. That's why your birth team matters.

As a fellow mama, I know firsthand the importance of having unwavering support every step of the way. Sadly, we live in a world where traumatic birth stories are more common than not. We need to remember that "a healthy mom and healthy baby" is not "all that matters." It's only the beginning. What we need is care that is not only safe, but also supportive and empowering.

That's where birth doulas come in. So if you're wondering "what is a doula?" or "what does a doula do?" stick around to learn about the invaluable role they play in birth and how to find your perfect doula match.

What is a Doula?

A birth doula provides physical and emotional support to women giving birth.

In birth, the physical and the emotional are undeniably intertwined. Feeling safe, supported and calm smooths the path for birth to take its course naturally. Your doula will hold space and guide you in any way you need. She will provide feminine connection and serve as your anchor, every step of the way.

What Does A Doula Do For You?

Throughout your pregnancy, your doula serves as a trusted confidante. She will offer guidance, resources and a compassionate ear. Think of her as your new BFF, who happens to know the ins and outs of birth.

Once you go into labor, your birth doula can physically help you in many ways. She will know different positions to help labor progress. She can guide you through breathing techniques. Give you back squeezes for pain relief. Keep you hydrated. Help you in and out of the shower or bath. Help you into the best pushing position. Once the baby is born, she can help you with breastfeeding.

A doula makes you feel supported and safe. She will advocate for your birth plan and will make sure you're as comfortable as possible.

Why Every Mama Should Hire A Birth Doula

Reduced Intervention Rates

Birth interventions are unfortunately very common and many times, they are routine. This includes c-sections, epidurals, Pitocin, vacuum extractions, and other procedures. While these interventions can be life saving at times, they are often overused. They have the potential to disrupt the process and lead to a cascade of more interventions. This can put both mama and baby at risk.

A birth doula can help reduce the need for interventions. She can also help give you clarity on when interventions are actually necessary. And when they are not.

Improved Birth Satisfaction

Doulas foster a supportive atmosphere and advocate for the mother's wishes. This helps women feel empowered and fulfilled with their birth experience.

Continuous Support

Doulas offer continuous support while you are in labor. Your doula will likely be the first one to come to you when labor starts. In my case, I went into labor at 3:30am. My doula, who lived one hour away from me, arrived at my place before 6am. From your first signs of labor until your baby arrives, birth doulas are there for you when you need them.

Informational Guidance

Doulas are a treasure trove of knowledge when it comes to babies and birth. Doulas can help you understand all your options. This can empower you to be able to make informed decisions that align with your values.

Advocacy and Communication

If a situation calls for it, your doulas will advocate for you and your birth plan. By the time you go into labor, your doula will be familiar with your values and wishes for your birth. And she will stand up for you, if need be.

In a perfect world, this won't be necessary. Everyone on your birth team, you and your partner will be on the same page. However, there are circumstances where this is not the case. Particularly in hospital settings. And navigating the medical system during childbirth can be daunting. Having an advocate and someone to help you understand medical jargon can be so helpful. A doula is a game-changer in this type of scenario.

How To Find Your Perfect Doula Match

My doula turned into a dear friend. Here she is holding my 4 month old.

Choosing the right doula is like finding your birth BFF. It should feel like a natural fit, with values that align and a connection that just clicks.

That's why I recommend checking out Birth Belongs To Women doulas. This group of women are passionate about birth and committed to supporting you. Birth Belongs To Women doulas understand the sacredness of birth. They will honor you as the authority in birth and they will empower you to have the best possible birth.

Check out the Birth Belongs to Women directory to find a doula near you. Remember, you can reach out to multiple doulas, get to know them, and trust your instincts.

The Birth You Deserve

Your birth story matters. A "healthy mom and healthy baby" is just the beginning. You deserve to feel empowered and fulfilled. You deserve an anchor - a doula. And above all, you deserve the birth you've always dreamed of. 

*This content is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. 

**Photo credit to my doula, Kallie Caton, award winning birth photographer, founder of Birth Belongs to Women, and the most amazing human.