Birth Doula FAQs

These frequently asked questions address the most common concerns I hear from families considering doula support. Every birth and family is unique, so while these answers provide a helpful foundation, I encourage you to reach out with any specific questions about your situation. During our consultation, we can explore your particular needs and how my support can

best serve your birth journey.

What is a birth doula? A birth doula is a trained professional who provides continuous physical, emotional, and informational support to mothers before, during, and shortly after childbirth. I'm non-medical support focused on your comfort and advocacy.

What is my role as your birth doula in the birthing room?

As your doula, I provide continuous physical comfort (massage, positioning, breathing techniques), emotional support, and information to help you make informed decisions. I'm your advocate by helping YOU communicate your needs and preferences to your medical team - I don't speak for you directly to staff or doctors, but I empower you to use your voice.

We can establish a code word during our prenatal meetings so if you need a private moment to discuss options or feelings before making any decisions, I can help create that space for us to talk things through together. This ensures you feel confident and informed about your choices throughout your birth experience.

My goal is to support your autonomy and help you feel heard and respected by everyone on your birth team.

What's the difference between a doula and a midwife? Midwives provide medical care and can deliver babies. Doulas provide emotional and physical support but don't perform medical procedures. I work alongside your medical team.

When should I hire a doula? Ideally during your second trimester, but I can support you at any stage of pregnancy. Earlier hiring allows more time to build our relationship and prepare together.

Do I need a doula if I'm having a hospital birth? Absolutely! Doulas provide valuable support in any birth setting - hospital, birth center, or home. I help you navigate the hospital environment and advocate for your preferences.

Will my doula replace my partner? Never! I support both you and your partner. I help your partner know how to best support you and take breaks when needed. I enhance the experience, not replace anyone.

Do doulas only support natural births? No! I support all types of births - unmedicated, medicated, cesarean, VBAC. My role is to support YOUR birth plan, whatever that looks like.

Why is a doula important even with an epidural or cesarean? Even with pain relief or during surgery, you still need emotional support and advocacy. With epidurals, I help you work with limited mobility, suggest effective positions, and provide comfort measures beyond pain management. For cesareans, I offer emotional support during prep, advocate for your preferences (like skin-to-skin contact), and help facilitate early bonding. Birth is about more than just pain management - it's your whole experience.

Do you offer birth photography? Photography is not included in my doula services. However, if you'd like me to capture a few moments during your birth, I'm happy to do so. I never share any photos to my business social media without your written consent.

Do you recommend hypnobirthing and birth classes? Yes! Once you sign your contract, I can refer you to classes that I have personally taken and recommend.

Are you a certified lactation consultant? No, I am not a certified lactation consultant, but I have completed lactation workshops and can assist you with basic breastfeeding support and positioning. If challenges arise that require specialized care, I will connect you with certified lactation consultants who can provide the expert guidance you need.

Do you provide postpartum or sibling doula services? No, but I can connect you with postpartum and sibling doulas I know and trust who can provide specialized support for your family's needs.

How much does a doula cost? Investment varies by location and services. Most doulas offer payment plans. Consider it an investment in your birth experience and early parenting journey.

What if I go into labor when my doula isn't available? Professional doulas have backup arrangements. You'll meet your backup doula during pregnancy and have their contact information.

What is your refund policy?

Client cancellation: Deposits are non-refundable once contract is signed
Failure to notify: If you don't notify me as required and I miss your birth, full fee retained with no refund
Rapid labor (under 3 hours): Additional postpartum support provided as compensation
Doula cancellation due to emergency: Backup doula provided or full refund given (minus services already completed)