To Doula or Not To Doula...

Thinking about hiring a doula but not sure where to begin? You are not alone! There’s a lot to take into account when you find out you’re pregnant, and one of the biggest things to consider is the kind of support you need (or want) for the birth of your baby.

So what, exactly, is a doula?  If you look it up online, one definition is “a woman, typically without formal obstetric training, who is employed to provide guidance and support for a pregnant woman during labor.”  However, the original meaning of the word Doula comes from the Greek meaning “a woman who serves.”  I personally think the latter truly encompasses the word Doula.

Let me start by saying, doulas are absolutely incredible.  The support they provide during the birth experience is beautiful, but beyond that they offer support leading up to the birth, and you have the option of having their help in the postpartum days (something more of us need to be talking about, but I’ll be diving into that later).  

I experienced firsthand the help and support of a doula when I was a birth partner for my friend.  Not only do doulas support the mama giving birth, but they are also there to provide support for the partner as well.  Doulas are typically trained using evidence based studies, and can help make sense of what’s going on while labor is happening.  In addition to having incredible knowledge on birthing, they provide physical support as well.  

Doulas also utilize their knowledge and instead of inserting themselves into the birth experience, they know when to ask a laboring mama, “Do you want to take a minute to think about that?” when a doctor or midwife gives some information that they would like to make sure you understand. By taking that minute, everyone leaves the room except the mama, her partner, and the doula, and the doula can provide additional information (again, from the evidence based knowledge they have) to help you make the right decision for you based on your birth plan.

A doula is a true advocate to a birthing mom, and makes it a point to know what your goals are ahead of time in order for you to have a satisfying birth experience.

When I found out I was pregnant, I knew I wanted a doula there.  Even though I’m planning on giving birth at the birthing center with a midwife and nurse, I wanted the extra support of a doula, especially on the off chance that something happens and I need to transfer to a hospital (fingers crossed that won’t be necessary!).

My partner and I attended our local Meet the Doula night to help us decide which doula would be right for us.  I had done some online research prior to attending, and had a couple of women in mind already.  I knew immediately which doula I wanted to work with once she and I met.  I felt an instant connection with her, as she was soft spoken and I felt her serenity almost immediately.  She also understands our love of sarcasm, and enjoys bringing humor and joy into the birthing experience. For me, that’s exactly what I wanted in my extra support system.  

If you’re thinking of hiring a doula, I recommend doing research and making sure you find someone you feel comfortable with, knowing that they are going to be sharing the most vulnerable experience of your life with you. Meet with them ahead of time before saying yes, so you know you’re bringing someone in that allows you to feel heard, and you know will advocate for you in your beautiful transition into motherhood.