What is a Birth Doula?

I often get asked "What is a Birth Doula?" or "What does a Birth Doula do?" I will usually stumble on what words to use for my description, as Doula's do so much and the work can be quite different depending on each client. What do I do?

I "SERVE" MY CLIENT

If my client has a spouse or partner present then I SERVE them as well.

Prenatally I will support my client with any questions she may have regarding pregnancy and birth with evidenced based information, I will spend time with her and listen to her vision of her ideal labor and birth, any fears or anxiety she may have. We will go over interventions and complications that may arise. I encourage her and her partner to make a plan A and plan B and sometimes a plan C. I will encourage her when she is in doubt. I will help calm her fears in the midst of pain.

I am on call for four weeks surrounding her due date. Throughout labor I give continuous support by keeping her and her partner fed and hydrated, giving foot and hand massages, dimming the lights and creating a safe environment. Holding her hand or rubbing her lower back through each contraction. From warming her up with heat pads, to cooling her down with ice and cold cloths draped around her neck. Holding a vomit bag, to ensuring she stays hydrated. Suggesting comfort techniques and encouraging positions that she is most comfortable in, to supporting her and her partner if complications arise.

Postnatally I am there for her if she has recovering, newborn and breastfeeding concerns. We process her labor experience and I answer any questions she might have, or moments she might not remember.

I am there for her, when she need, through all of her journey.

Behind the scenes I am researching, researching and researching.

I am learning and will always be learning as birth is unpredictable. The birth world never stops. Women will always remember their birth stories.

"My ultimate aim, as a Birth Doula is to create an environment she will feel safe, a journey that will empower her, and an experience she will remember as her greatest achievement."