FAQ

Common Questions

What is a Full Spectrum Doula?

A person who can provide emotional, physical, and spiritual support, along with resources and birth preparation for you and your expecting family before, during, and after any birth experience. Often times for weeks or months after. This includes IVF,  birth, pregnancy loss, adoption, surrogacy, adoption, etc. Someone that you call on at any time, drops everything to be by your side, allows your partner to be fully present in the experience without any added pressure, and helps you navigate all the questions, fears, and excitement. Someone whose agenda is solely to empower you and facilitate your best birth experience.

Is a Doula the same as a Midwife?

A Doula is a non-medical support person who focuses on supporting you emotionally, spiritually, and physically, and helps you to feel informed and empowered. A Midwife is a medical professional that focuses on the physical health and safety of you and your baby. Both Doulas and Midwives may work with you prenatally, support you throughout the birth and follow up with you postpartum. At birth Midwives may be found doing similar things to a Doula, but their top priorities include: ensuring that you and baby's vital signs are stable, assessing you and your baby, completing cervical exams when needed, administering medication if necessary, and catching the baby you are birthing.

When should I hire a Doula?

The earlier the better! Those inquiring about preconception support should reach out to a Full Spectrum Doula (FSD) before they become overwhelmed with appointments and procedures. Those who are pregnant may benefit from seeking support beginning in their second trimester. Postpartum clients should also consider securing a Doula prior to the birth of their child. Make sure to interview more than one Doula to determine who is the best fit for you. You deserve someone you feel an easy connection with and someone who you feel fits your personality and needs. Not every Doula is for you!

How can a Doula benefit me?

Multiple randomized control studies have found that the presence of a trained Doula benefits everyone. Studies consistently show that doula care is associated with shorter labors, less use of epidurals and other pain medications, lower episiotomy rates, and as much as a 50% reduction in the C-section rate. Research has also shown better clinical outcomes for both the birthing parent and the baby. A Doula also often provides support for the birthing person's partner and family members, they may assist busy hospital staff, and greatly increasing a birthing person's overall satisfaction with their birthing experience.

Does a Doula replace my partner or other support persons?

A Doula is another member of your birthing team and is not intended to replace anyone. A Doula's involvement may help partners be more present during your birth experience because a Doula can teach your partner or support person how and when to use various comfort techniques to assist you. Partners and other support persons are often grateful to be able to share the “coaching” responsibility with someone and can therefore enjoy the birth experience more.

What if I dont have a "natural birth"?

All birth is "natural" and a part of our human instinct of reproduction therefore every body and every birthing experience deserves recognition and support. A Doula is beneficial in assisting with any and all birth experiences, including surgical birth, inductions, and medicated births. Some expectant parents prefer no pain medications, others may plan to have no medications and change their mind later, while others may choose a planned medicated birth. A Doula offers information on all procedures, including pain medications, potential side effects, and interventions and works with you to facilitate a confident and safe birth experience.

Interested in having a Doula support you?