QUESTION: Are doulas only for home births, natural births, and hippies?
Absolutely not! A doula provides different support for different types of births. Caesarean births, VBACs, and medicated labors all benefit greatly from the unique support a doula provides in these particular scenarios. Also, in cases where previous birth experiences have resulted in PTSD it is highly recommended one hire a doula.
QUESTION: Is a doula the same thing as a midwife?
No. A doula does not perform clinical/medical tasks such as cervical checks or deliveries. A doula provides informational, physical, and emotional support only.
QUESTION: Will a doula replace my husband or partner?
The presence of a doula should not displace or replace a partner who desires to be involved. The goal should be to enhance the bonding experience between partners, not diminish it. In cases where the partner prefers limited/no involvement then the doula will assume the primary role of emotional and physical support.
QUESTIONS: Why hire a doula? Doesn’t the hospital already provide medical staff to take care of my needs?
Medical staff do provide for your medical needs. However, they cannot provide you with continuous physical and emotional care and coaching throughout your labor. Also, due to shift changes, different medical personal will come and go. Hiring a doula provides you with ONE familiar face who will stay by your side. A doula is someone who knows YOUR desires, preferences, fears, and needs are and is there to serve ONLY YOU through the duration of your labor, delivery, and immediate postpartum.