A doula is a person who is supportive to you and your partner through the last months of your pregnancy, throughout the entirety of you labor and birth and in the postpartum.

Prenatally: A doula supports parents by providing information and resources for any questions they may have, helping them develop a birth plan based on what the parents would like to see happen at their birth, and to understand what they would like her (the doula’s) role to be during their birth experience.

The Birth: The doula has a contract, with the family, to be available for them throughout the whole labor and birth experience (whether that labor be 6 hours or 3 days), including the first few hours after delivery. The doula will provide you and your partner with continuous emotional and physical support through massage, relaxation techniques, verbal encouragement, and anything else (non-medical) that parents ask for or need during your birth. The doula also acts as your advocate by reminding you and your partner of things that were discussed in your birth plan, but does not speak for you. She helps you to find your voice in being able to discuss your desires with hospital staff or family members.

Postpartum: In the first 24 to 36 hours your doula will discuss the birth with you. This allows you to share your experiences and feelings about the birth and the doula’s role in it. Your doula will also answer any questions you may have about breastfeeding, parenting and any other resources you may need at the first and subsequent postpartum visits. The doula will do her best to equip you and your partner with the tools you need to be confident in your ability as parents.

Additional services include postpartum doula services: If you are interested in this kind of service, your doula will provide you with continuing breastfeeding support, light house cleaning and help with the laundry, cooking and childcare. She will also provide you with desired resources and information.