do you really need a doula?

What is a doula?

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I like to think of birth doulas as the other bookend to your medical care team. We both have the same goal: your health and safety being protected. But while your doctors, midwives, and nurses are responsible for the physical outcome of your birth, my role as your doula is focused on the emotional outcome. This means making sure you feel continuously supported and encouraged in your goals, providing a spectrum of comfort techniques and tools, and helping you find ways to maintain a sense of calm and control.

Doulas do not provide any medical advice or clinical tasks, don’t speak on your behalf, and cannot take the place of medical care providers. I won’t direct your choices. I’m here to help you understand your options, trust your instincts, and feel supported in carrying out what feels right for you.

What does the data say about the benefits of having a doula?

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Research shows that when folks have continuous doula support during childbirth, this leads to:

  • 8% increased likelihood of a spontaneous vaginal birth

  • 39% decrease in the risk of a Cesarean

  • 10% decrease in the use of pain meds

  • Shorter labors by an average of 41 minutes

  • 38% decrease in the baby’s risk of low Apgar scores (a measure of baby’s health immediately after birth)

  • 31% decrease in the risk of being dissatisfied with their birth experience

Additionally, the State of Washington now recommends doulas for perinatal care and covers the cost under Medicaid, citing similar evidence-based research. “Doula care is associated with better perinatal and infant outcomes, including reduced medically unnecessary cesarean sections and other medical interventions, premature deliveries, length of labor, reduced anxiety and stress and increased breastfeeding. Doulas are also associated with higher patient satisfaction and are a promising strategy to address racial and ethnic disparities in perinatal and infant health outcomes.”

Sources:

Who would benefit from hiring a doula?

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I truly think most families would benefit from a doula!

It’s clear that continuous support during labor is associated with better outcomes for both the parent and baby, Here are just a few examples of what that might look like for you:

  • First pregnancy and birth? I’ll be a continuous resource for all the seemingly endless variations of pregnancy and childbirth. Let’s avoid information overload and blissful ignorance, and get you to a place of confidence in your decisions.

  • Hoping for a quick and painless labor? I wish I could promise that! But if that doesn’t end up being your story, I’ll be there to show you which positions are going to help baby get moving, know which pressure points might relieve some pain, draw a bath for you, and help you avoid unnecessary suffering.

  • If there’s an induction or Cesarean, whether planned or not, I’ll be there to provide continuity through each location change and shift change. I’ll help you process necessary medical interventions and find ways we can bring back elements of your initial birth vision, so you stay empowered during the process.

  • Maybe this isn’t your first rodeo? Maybe there are lingering fears or things you want to be different this time around? Let’s talk about it! I’m here to make sure you feel supported.

  • What about partners? Maybe you’ll have one bestie or partner with you, or maybe you’ll want a full room of family. Whatever you choose, I’m there to help your built-in support system be their best. Instead of carrying the full weight of the experience, I’ll help guide partners in how to be involved, connected, and confident in supporting you. Doulas don’t replace partners—we support them, helping them feel more confident and involved.

  • Don’t forget postpartum! Labor and birth get all the attention, but sometimes it’s afterwards when you’ll really need the most care. I know from personal experience how meaningful it can be to have someone who was there sit with you, listen to your birth story, fill in the fuzzy parts along the way, and remind you of all that you accomplished. Maybe you’re wanting to breastfeed/chestfeed and it’s harder than you expected? I’m trained to help! At the very least, let me tidy up around the house, heat up some warm food for you, and check in to make sure you’ve got the support you deserve. Postpartum can be as much of a wildcard as birth is; I’m not going to let you feel like you’re doing it all alone.

If you’re curious about doula support or wondering if the investment is worth it, you’re always welcome to reach out! No pressure at all; getting to talk about birth work and perinatal care is a true joy of mine.