Question 1

What does a birth doula do?

Accepted Answer

A birth doula supports you along your pregnancy, birth and postpartum journey. Some things that are included in the work of a doula prenatal visits, on-call availability and support, continuity of care, assistance during labour and birthing (including help in establishing birth preferences and optimal fetal positioning), aromatherapy, massage, photography, breastfeeding support, resources and more.

Click here to learn more about the difference between a Birth and Postpartum Doula.

Question 2

What is the difference between a Doula and Midwife?

Accepted Answer

A doula is a non-medical birth partner who focuses on caring for the expecting mother emotionally and physically. A birth doula helps you to feel informed and more empowered for the decisions you make along your pregnancy, birth and postpartum journey.

A midwife is a "medical" professional trained to help you stay healthy in pregnancy and, if no complications arise, to help you give birth with little intervention. If birthing in a hospital, midwives also support the care for you and your baby in the first few days following your birth.

Specifically during birth, doulas are often found supporting your labour positioning with massage and pressure, refilling your water bottle, providing guidance and reassurance (to you and your birth partner), and repeating affirmations that empower you. Midwives may at time support in a similar way but their top priorities include ensuring that the mother and baby's vital signs are stable, assessing mother and baby, administering medication (if necessary) and catching the baby at birth.

Question 3

When should I hire a birth doula?

Accepted Answer

Typically, at the start of your third trimester is an ideal time to have your doula secured by. It is often recommended that you start your search in your second trimester, talk to and interview a couple of doulas, and really determine who is the best fit for you and your partner. It's important that you find someone you have an easy connection with and someone who you feel suits your personality and needs.

If you are someone who experiences anxiety more often, booking a doula earlier in your pregnancy can be beneficial. This additional time allows you to form that trusting relationship and to feel unconditionally supported as you navigate the physical and emotional ups and downs.

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