Doulas 101
Written by Candace Nimons, our 2023 undergraduate summer intern, as part of our Emerging Talent in Science Communication series.
What are doulas? Who are they for?
During pregnancy, most women need a constant and practical emotional support system that includes someone with experience in handling pregnancy-related anxieties. Doulas are an option for women who need a bit more support. They are trained, non-medical professionals who provide emotional, physical, and informational support to expectant parents during pregnancy, childbirth, and/or the postpartum period.
Doulas offer a range of services including:
- Emotional Support: Doulas can offer emotional encouragement, empathy, and reassurance to expectant parents throughout the childbirth journey.
- Physical Support: They assist with various comfort measures, such as position changes, massage, breathing techniques, and the use of birthing tools, to help manage pain and discomfort during labor.
- Informational Support: Doulas provide evidence-based information about childbirth options, medical procedures, and postpartum care.
- Birth Plan Assistance: Doulas help parents develop a personalized birth plan that reflects their preferences for labor, delivery, and postpartum care.
- Partner Support: Doulas assist partners in understanding their roles during childbirth, offering guidance and reassurance to ensure they feel engaged and involved in the process.
- Postpartum Care: Doulas provide support during the postpartum period, assisting with newborn care, breastfeeding, and helping parents adjust to their new roles.
- Referrals and Resources: Doulas can connect parents to community resources, childbirth education classes, lactation consultants, and other support services as needed.
What are the benefits of having one?
Individuals who receive care from doulas often report improved birthing experiences characterized by shorter labors, decreased use of pain relief medications, reduced rates of C-sections, and higher levels of satisfaction with the birth experience.
Before the baby arrives:
Before a baby is born, doulas play a role in supporting families by providing evidence-based information and guidance. They help families create birth plans that align with their preferences and values, helping families make decisions about medical interventions, pain management, and other aspects of childbirth. Doulas can also offer encouragement and provide a safe space for parents to share their concerns and fears. Through this preparation families can feel more prepared and confident as they navigate the intricacies of pregnancy and childbirth.
During labor and delivery:
During the birthing process, doulas serve as a comforting presence by offering continuous emotional and physical support. They utilize methods like massages, positioning techniques, and breathing exercises to alleviate labor pains while creating an overall sense of tranquility. Research has shown that receiving doula services has positive effects on both mothers and infants as reflected in their postpartum experiences, subsequent self esteem and mental well being. Doulas also serve as advocates for families within the birthing environment, ensuring effective communication and respect for their desires. This unwavering support not only enhances the birthing journey for families but also creates a positive atmosphere that can contribute to smoother progression of labor and reduce stress for both parents and healthcare professionals.
After the baby is born:
Beyond childbirth, doulas continue to be a resource for families by offering practical assistance and emotional guidance. They can provide support with breastfeeding, educate parents on newborn care strategies, and help to navigate the challenges of early parenthood. Doulas play a role in helping families establish routines and coping strategies during the postpartum period. Additionally, their involvement can lower the risk of postpartum depression and anxiety. By ensuring that families receive the physical, emotional and informational support they need, doulas play a crucial role in improving the well being of mothers, partners and newborns throughout the transformative journey of childbirth and beyond.
Think you might benefit from a doula? Here’s how to find one:
- Doula organizations' directories have certified/trained doulas shortlisted based on experience/contact details like DONA International or CAPPA.
- Ask your friends and family for recommendations. Healthcare providers can also provide insights on their previous experiences with doulas.
- Use online platforms like Birthful and DoulaMatch that connect you with doulas based on what you are looking for.
- Prenatal classes and childbirth educational programs often offer collaborations between expecting couples and doulas. This provides an opportunity to meet doulas in person during introductory sessions where they can share information about their services. They might be available for later contact to seek their services.
Hiring Costs:
The cost of doula services can vary greatly depending on factors such as location, experience, the range of services provided and the duration of support. Typically, prices can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars and some doulas may offer support for up to six weeks or even three months in rare cases. When preparing for the arrival of a child, it's common to attend multiple prenatal visits that can take a significant amount of time. Additionally, doulas may offer hourly rates or flat fees that apply beyond certain durations of time.
If you're seeking affordable doula care during pregnancy and childbirth, one option is to explore agencies and grants that provide assistance. Many doula agencies or organizations offer pricing based on individual income levels, making their services more accessible to a wider range of people. Additionally, there are non profit organizations and community-based initiatives that provide grants or financial aid specifically for doula care. These resources allow women from different backgrounds to benefit from the valuable support doulas provide. To take advantage of these opportunities, start researching doula agencies or organizations that offer reduced fees and also look into grants or scholarships specifically designed to support doula services.
It can also be beneficial to reach out to community health centers, midwives and birthing centers. They often have valuable information about affordable doula care resources in your local area. By exploring these options, you can discover the necessary support to ensure a positive birthing experience.
