Doula Facts and Information

FAQ

  • The role of a doula is to support the birthing person and family through their pregnancy, labour, birth, and postpartum period, helping to ensure a positive and empowering experience. This means we focus on the whole person—physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually—rather than just the mechanics of birth. 

    A doula offers emotional guidance and encouragement, helping the birthing person process any fears or anxieties they may have around childbirth or postpartum experiences. We support physical well-being which can include comfort measures during labour, such as positioning, acupressure, and breathing techniques. 

    We provide evidence-based information about the stages of labour, medical interventions, and choices for pain management, so the birthing person can make informed decisions. We can also help the family understand what to expect and how they can support the birthing person. Doulas work alongside other healthcare providers.

    Is a doula different from a midwife? The roles of a doula and a midwife are complementary but distinct, and both are integral to supporting a person through pregnancy, labour, and birth.

    Midwives are highly trained, respected healthcare professionals of the medical perinatal care team. A midwife is licensed to provide medical care during pregnancy, labour, and birth, including conducting physical exams, performing tests, and delivering babies. Midwives provide clinical care, which includes monitoring the health of the birthing person and baby, checking vital signs, and managing any complications during labour or birth. 

    Midwives help the birthing person make informed decisions based on their health and medical needs. They may make medical recommendations, provide interventions if needed, and ensure the safety of both the parent and baby. Their care is the medical equivalent of a maternity doctor (GP-OB), but their philosophy is guided by the midwifery model of care. Read more about midwifery care in BC here.

  • Hiring a doula is a personal decision, and the ideal time to hire one depends on your preferences and the type of support you're looking for. 

    While it's never too late to hire a doula, many people choose to hire one early in their pregnancy, often in the first or second trimester. This allows you ample time to build a relationship and discuss your birth preferences, expectations, and any concerns you may have. 

    If you're nearing the end of your pregnancy and haven't yet hired a doula, it’s still a good time to do so. Doulas can provide support in the final weeks, whether it’s offering comfort techniques, reviewing your birth plan, or simply being there for emotional support as you approach labour.

    Postpartum doula support: If you're looking for just postpartum support, you can hire a postpartum doula either during pregnancy or after the baby is born. Postpartum doulas provide assistance with newborn care, breastfeeding support, emotional well-being, and household help during the first few weeks or months after birth. 

    Hiring a doula early gives you the full benefit of their support, but you can always reach out for assistance at any point in your pregnancy or birth journey!

  • Doula support is not covered by MSP or private insurance plans in BC.

    If hiring a doula is cost prohibitive, here are some suggestions:

    • Ask friends & family to create a doula fund for you, rather than gifting you material things.

    • If your employer/co-workers offers a gift for parental leave, consider asking them to support you in having a doula.

    • Payment can be made in installments. While an initial payment is required, I am generally flexible in arranging a payment schedule that makes the cost more manageable for you.

  • Hiring a doula can provide numerous benefits to expectant parents, enhancing the birth experience and offering valuable support throughout this new transitional stage. Doulas respect the choices of the birthing person, our goal is to provide support in line with the birthing person’s wishes, free from any judgment.

    A doula provides support not just for the birthing person, but also for their partner. They can help guide the partner on how to assist during labour, offer breaks, and ensure that the partner feels confident and supported as well. With a doula present, the partner can feel more relaxed, knowing they have someone trained to handle the labour process and provide physical or emotional assistance.

    Whether you're seeking pain management, emotional support, or a knowledgeable advocate, a doula can be an invaluable part of your birth team.

Did You Know?

Having a doula can reduce the likelihood of interventions:

Studies have shown that having continuous labour support from a doula can reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions, such as cesarean sections, forceps or vacuum-assisted births, and the use of pain medications.

Having a doula can improve maternal satisfaction: 

Research indicates that people who have doula support are often more satisfied with their birth experience, feeling more positive about their labour and delivery.

Having a doula can support the postpartum transition:

By offering continuous emotional and practical support during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum, doulas can help reduce the risk of postpartum depression. Their presence can help new parents feel more confident and supported in their role, reducing feelings of isolation and stress.