So What is a Doula Anyway?
A doula or a ‘birth-keeper’ is a trained and valued birth companion to the birthing family. Using their expertise, they protect the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual space of the birthing family throughout their pregnancy, birth, and postnatal period.
Importantly, a doula is not to be confused with the role of midwives or birth obstetricians, as rather than intervene, it is the role of a doula to quietly observe and allow birth to naturally unfold.
The roles of the doula
Offering up to date and accurate information
Supporting decision making and planning
Advocating for the birthing family (e.g. with medical professionals and family members)
Providing personalised pregnancy and birth support
Attending the birth event
Supporting the postpartum family
Supporting infant feeding
Reasons to hire a doula?
Birth outcomes are significantly improved with the presence of a doula.
Often, doulas operate outside of the medical system. Therefore, they have a unique perspective to offer regarding pregnancy, birth and postpartum.
Doulas can support the whole family system, lovingly holding you as you transition towards and through new parenthood.
Doulas can be the safe space needed during challenging moments.
Doulas support and empower your choices, allowing you to explore options and ideas, making this experience your own.
It is not the role of the doula to save and fix the day, nor is it their role to intervene and make decisions on behalf of the birthing person. It is their role to hold space for the birthing person, supporting and guiding them to ensure that their perinatal experience is a positive one, which they cultivated for themselves.
Still unsure? Here are some questions to ask yourself when considering doula support…
‘How might my perinatal experience be improved with doula support?’
‘What disadvantages may arise without doula support?’
‘How much would I pay for a liberated, positive birthing experience?’
‘Do I value support and care for myself/us as much as I value support and care for my/our baby?’
Is hiring a doula something you’re considering? Are you searching for additional maternity support in your perinatal journey?
Book to have a chat today or discover The ReBirth Space 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,