Frequently Asked Questions

Details on the benefits and services of Doulas are widely unknown to the general public. Here are a few of the most frequently asked questions about Doulas.

What are the benefits of having a Doula at my birth?

• Doulas provide continuous support to the laboring mother. Unlike doctors and nurses who have other tasks to perform, the Doula is dedicated exclusively to supporting the mother's wants and needs. Another benefit is that this allows the daddy/coach to spend more intimate time with Mom.
• Your Doula will act as your advocate, helping Doctors and Nurses better carry out the wishes of the laboring Mother.
• Its is proven that having a professionally trained Doula shortens labor time by 25% and reduces the usage of forceps during delivery by up to 40%.
• Doulas also reduce the rate of cesarean deliveries by up to 50%.
• Usage of pitocin is reduced by 40% and requests for epidurals are decreased by 60% when a Doula is present at the birth.
• There is a much higher sucess rate for VBAC's (vaginal birth after cesarean) with a Doula present

What kinds of services can I expect from my Doula?

• Doulas are trained in different types of counter pressure massage to alleviate labor pains in the back and hips.
• Doulas can provide suggestions for positions that will help with labor pain as well as progress.
• Doulas can give the dad/coach tips on how to make the laboring mother more comfortable so that he can play a more active part in the birth.
• Doulas provide different tools and aids such as a Birthing Ball or special massagers to help with the mothers comfort.
• Your Doula will meet with you both prenatally and postpartum with tips and ideas. She will be able to give advice on writing a birth plan, talking to your doctor about procedures and which questions to ask as well as giving breast feeding tips and advice once the baby is born.
• Doulas give emotional support, validating the mothers efforts, comforting her fears and encouraging her in her decision making. Doulas DO NOT perform medical procedures or make decisions for the mother.

Where can I find out even more wonderful information about Doulas?

• CAPPA (Childbirth and Postpartum Professional Association) - www.childbirthprofessional.com
• DONA (Doulas of North America) - www.DONA.org
• ALACE (Association of Labor Assistants and Childbirth Educators) - www.ALACE.org