Frequently Asked Questions

A doula is a trained professional who provides continuous physical, emotional and informational support to their client before, during and shortly after childbirth to help them achieve the healthiest, most satisfying experience possible.

Many experts agree hiring a doula during the second trimester is ideal. On the other hand, there is no quote on quote best time. It all depends on you and when you feel like having a go for it. One thing to keep in mind is that hiring a doula early on gives you two more time to build the all-important rapport and a trusting relationship.

No. A doula is a non-medical assistant and cannot replace medical staff. A doula does not perform clinical tasks such as taking temperature or blood pressure, vaginal examinations, checking fetal heart rate, and postpartum clinical care. A doula will support you and your birth team before and after childbirth. The non-medical support that your doula provides will allow your medical team focuses solely on clinical matters. 

No. Your doula won’t make decisions for you or interfere with your medical care. However, they will provide informational support and evidence based information while respecting your choices and providing a non-judgemental space.

No, your doula provides support to you and your partner. Your doula can also play a crucial role in helping your partner become more involved – to the extent they are comfortable with – in the childbearing experience.

Yes! There are no births that prevent a doula from providing support. An epidural birth does not translate into needing less care. A doula can help with changing positions, guided relaxation, gentle massages, and running light errands.  The presence of a doula will make things a lot easier for you, regardless of how you give birth or plan to give birth.

It is a common question amongst expecting mothers considering hiring a doula. The answer is yes. Your doula can and will support you if you have a C-section. The nature of your C-section, hospital policies, and how events unfold can affect or determine the role of your doula. Nevertheless, they still provide you with substantial support. For example, they can guide you in making informed decisions about your care before a C-section. They can support you physically and emotionally before birth and post-surgery. Your doula can also help with breastfeeding initiation.