Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of hiring a doula?
Working with a doula begins with developing an approach to your birth and recovery based on your personal needs and preferences. Your prenatal appointments will give you time to explore the nuances of labor, your unique coping style, and any fears or concerns you might have. Your doula is a generalist who can make referrals, connect you with whatever additional support you might need.
While we cannot guarantee outcomes, studies have shown that having a doula as a member of the birth team decreases the overall cesarean rate by 50%, the length of labor by 25%, the use of oxytocin by 40%, and requests for an epidural by 60%.
What are your interactions with medical staff like?
I am confident in my role on the birth team and enjoy working closely with nurses, midwives, and other birthing staff in hospitals and birth centers. I respect that I am showing up to their workplace and strive for a collaborative relationship.
Rarely will I act as a mouthpiece for my clients; rather, I support and encourage them in advocating for themselves. I will ask questions and make sure my clients have time to process any unexpected decisions.
Occasionally I will attend prenatal appointments with clients and their providers. In those cases, I tend to observe and support my client in gathering information.
Do you perform any physical examinations?
No.
My scope of practice as a doula is strictly non-medical. When I offer a physical touch to clients, it is for comfort, not therapeutic or diagnostic.
Does a doula replace the partner?
I offer support to the birthing person AND their partner. In our prenatal visits, I focus on how we will all work together to center your birth preferences. We will discuss the needs of your family as a whole when we plan for postpartum recovery. I am honored to be invited into this sacred moment in your family's story and I want to see you all come out of it with a beautiful story to share.