How do I find the right doula?
Think about your priorities for pregnancy/birth/postnatal period. For some people their priority is emotional support, for others it is more important to have an information resource and for others, a balance of both. Take a look at different doula profiles and narrow down to a few that match your requirements. Meet with them for an initial consultation to see who you connect with the most. Ideally meet at least 2-3 people to get a feel of who you connect with. A lot of people have a good feeling that they will be able to relax and put their trust in the doula that they eventually choose.
Will a doula replace my birth partner?
No a doula will not replace your birth partner. A doula is there to support the birthing person and their birth partner my goal as a doula is to ensure that you both have enough understanding to make the choices that are best for you.
Why are doulas so expensive?
This question is typically asked in relation to the cost of a birth doula. A birth doula is typically on call for clients for a number of weeks. During that time they are subject to a number of restrictions and are available to be at your birth for an extended number of hours should it be required of them. The cost of a doula reflects this in addition to the benefit that they bring (see above on what the evidence says about doulas).
Do doulas prevent doctors/midwives from doing their jobs?
No, doulas work with families to support them in choosing the best options for them. They work alongside all other members of the birth team to get the best possible outcome.
Will a doula speak/advocate for me?
A doula can advocate for you in terms of supporting decisions that you make based on all of the relevant information that you have available to you. A doula will not override your decisions. They can however help to make sure that you are being heard.
Are doulas available for hospital births?
Yes! Doulas support people to give birth in the place that the family/person choose. The key part of a doula’s role is to help their client have the best experience possible.
Do doulas expect people to give birth without pain medication?
No, a doula will ensure that parents are aware of their options and let them make the decisions for themselves.
What does the evidence say about doulas?
25% decrease in the risk of Cesarean; the largest effect was seen with a doula (39% decrease)*
8% increase in the likelihood of a spontaneous vaginal birth; the largest effect was seen with a doula (15% increase)*
10% decrease in the use of any medications for pain relief; the type of person providing continuous support did not make a difference
Shorter labors by 41 minutes on average; there is no data on if the type of person providing continuous support makes a difference
38% decrease in the baby’s risk of a low five minute Apgar score; there is no data on if the type of person providing continuous support makes a difference
31% decrease in the risk of being dissatisfied with the birth experience; mothers’ risk of being dissatisfied with the birth experience was reduced with continuous support provided by a doula or someone in their social network (family or friend), but not hospital staff
(For the asterisked points above, the best results were with continuous doula support during labour)
Source: www.evidencebasedbirth.com
