Choosing Your Ideal Doula - The 3 Main Types

When it comes to pregnancy, our needs and care all differ. Ultimately, there is no ‘one-size-fits-all’ when it comes to maternity support. This is why hiring a doula to walk alongside you during your maternity journey can be beneficial, as birthing outcomes are likely to be improved when the most niche care needs are met. Discover the 3 main types of doula services: birth doula, postpartum doula and full spectrum doula, and more about what a doula is here.

What are the different types of doulas?

Birth Doula

A birth doula is someone who attends the birth event as an emotional, physical and spiritual support for the birthing family. They are a gentle, non-intrusive presence who can provide advocacy, care and expertise during childbirth.

You may choose to hire a birth doula if additional support is desired during the birth event, if you have specific birth choices that need firm advocacy, if you are experiencing challenges (physical or otherwise) in your pregnancy, or if you have had difficult birth experiences in the past.

Childbirth can be a vulnerable time for the birthing family but with the presence of a doula, the birthing space is sure to be protected.

Postpartum Doula

A postpartum doula is someone who offers support in the days following childbirth. They attend to the needs of the birthing family which may include feeding support, nourishment (particularly for the birthing parent), emotional support, and rest.

You may choose a postpartum doula to lighten the load of early parenthood, to ensure optimum wellness to take care of yourself and your new family, to move through the emotional days (baby blues) with ease, and to evade loneliness in early parenthood.

Parenthood is not meant to be done in isolation. A postpartum doula ensures your most basic needs are being met so that you can lovingly show up for your new family.

Full-Spectrum Doula

A full-spectrum doula is someone who journeys with a birthing family from early-mid pregnancy to the postpartum period. Even from conception in some cases. Essentially, they walk with the birthing family as they navigate experiences in new parenthood. Specifically, they support families no matter the circumstances that arise and can be particularly supportive to those who experience bereavement and loss during their perinatal journey.

You may choose a full-spectrum doula if you have any worries or concerns about your birth outcomes, if you’ve experienced challenges in your perinatal journey, or if you simply wish to obtain the best outcomes for your birth and postpartum experience.

In the event that your doula cannot show up for you in the physical, there is also the option of virtual doula services. Learn more here.

What kind of doula support does The ReBirth Space offer?

Are you looking to hire a doula? The ReBirth Space offers all 3 of these services. Book to have a chat today or discover our doula services. Additionally, access more articles and offers when you sign up to The ReBirth Space mailing list.

Thank you for reading. Take wonderful care.

With compassion,