A Doula is a trained professional who provides physical, emotional, and informational support to a mother before, during, and after childbirth. Doulas do not provide medical care but work alongside healthcare providers to ensure the birthing experience aligns with the mother’s preferences.
Research shows that having a Doula during childbirth can lead to:
• Shorter labor duration
• Lower risk of cesarean delivery
• Reduced need for pain medication
• Increased satisfaction with the birthing experience
• Greater breastfeeding success
A Midwife is a medical professional trained to manage the clinical aspects of pregnancy and birth. A Doula provides non-clinical emotional, physical, and informational support, focusing on the birthing parent's overall experience.
It’s best to hire a Doula early in your pregnancy to build a relationship and allow them to support you throughout your journey. However, Doulas can also be hired later in pregnancy or even just for labor and delivery support.
Yes! Doulas support all types of births, including:
• Vaginal births
• Cesarean births
• Home births
• Hospital births
• Birth center births
• Water births
• VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean)