Questions to ask a Doula and FAQ's

What does a Doula do?

Recognizes birth as a key experience the mother will remember all her life
Understands the physiology of birth and the emotional needs of a woman in labor
Assists the woman in preparing for and carrying out her plans for birth
Stays with the woman throughout the labor
Provides emotional support, physical comfort measures and an objective viewpoint
Helps the woman get the information she needs to make informed decision
Facilitates communication between the labouring woman, her partner and her clinical care providers
Perceives her role as nurturing and protecting the woman's memory of the birth experience
Allows the woman's partner to participate at his/her comfort level

What are the benefits of having a Doula?

A Doula is a constant companion/ support throughout your labor and delivery. Unfortunately, nurses and doctors are not able to devote unlimited time to each patient. A DONA Certified Doula has agreed to abide by a Code of Ethics and Standards and Scope of Practice. Certification is highly recommended.

Numerous studies have shown that the presence of a Doula at a birth results in:

50% reduction in caesarean rates*
40% reduction in forceps deliveries*
25% shorter labours*
60% reduction in epidural requests*
40% reduction in oxytocin (Pitocin) use*
better mother-infant bonding*
30% reduction in analgesia use*
reduced post-partum depression*

*(Mothering the Mother: How a Doula Can Help You Have a Shorter, Easier and Healthier Birth) by Klaus, Kennell and Klaus

"...the presence of a Doula is a major advantage for physicians, nurses, the woman and their families. They provide a level of support that is very difficult to achieve in a busy maternity care service. We see increase satisfaction with the birth experience, lower intervention rates and excellent infant outcomes."
- Anonymous Family Practice Physician

Does the Doula interfere with the father or partners role during labour and delivery?

No. On the contrary, the presence of a continuous labour support person for the labouring woman can allow the partner to be involved to their own comfort level. At times when the partner begins to feel uncertain or fearful the Doula can reassure them when things are normal.

The partner may feel helpless at times and it is during these times that the Doula can help bring the parents together as a team.

"Having a Doula at the birth of our second child showed me that I was not just a bystander in this event. She allowed me to become a part of it."
- KCR

What if you can't make it to my birth?

As a part of a community of Doulas, I have back up support when needed. Granted, not all Doulas and parents are a good match. So after you and I establish a relationship, we can discuss what you would look for in a back up Doula. Because I have two small children myself, I always work with back up support.

My services include:

Initial Interview:: An initial meeting will give you more information about Doula care and services. This is an opportunity for you to determine if we are a good match and if I will make a good member of your team. If for whatever reason you or I decide we are not a good match, I will make every effort to help you find a more suitable Doula.
Prenatal Visit One:: At this first visit it is important to meet with you and your partner or support person to become acquainted. We will explore and discuss your priorities for your birth, your birth plan (if you have one), and address any fears and concerns you might have. I have a good deal of reference material we can go over to find answers to your questions in case I do not know them off hand. You will always be able to reach me by phone. This constant access helps to build trust and confidence in our working relationship.
Prenatal Visit Two:: At this meeting, we will discuss any questions you, your parent or I may have and see how your birth plan is evolving. During this visit we go over your desires, fears and dreams surrounding your birth. This is an opportunity for me to learn more about you and how I might help you achieve your goals. I will go through a list of possibilities, outcomes and interventions as well address any questions you might like to discuss with your care-provider. It is important to explore the "what if's."
Prenatal Visit Three:: During this meeting we like to go over the logistics of either getting to the hospital or setting up your home for the birth. Discuss if you would like to have photos taken of your birth, this is something both of us have done often for many other birthing couples. During this visit we discuss postpartum health and infant care. We will review breastfeeding basics and give you practical advice for the early weeks of your baby's life.
Labour, Birth and up to Two Hours Postpartum:: Phone contact will begin when you go into labour and I will come to you as soon as you need me. This is usually once mom is in active labour. I can meet you at your home, stay with you there for as long as you are comfortable and then accompany you to the hospital, or meet you directly at the hospital. Once I am with you, I will stay with you during the entire labour, birth, and for about 2 hours postpartum. When the time feels right I will leave you and your family to bond, but I won't leave before breastfeeding has been attempted.
After your Birth:: I am available by the phone to answer questions about the birth of your baby as well as any possible breastfeeding concerns that may arise. As a breastfeeding support person I strive to be there to help you in anyway I can. I will make every effort to come and see you within 24 hours of hospital discharge.
Postpartum Visit:: After a week or two (whenever you are ready) I like to come by for a final visit to establish closure and to hear from you how your birth experience was. This is a time for reflection and feedback.

How much does having a Doula cost?

Pricing is very variable, depending on your particular situation, but an estimate is around $800. After we discuss your particular wants and needs, including your family situation, I will be able to give you a better idea of the final cost.

Questions to ask a Doula

For any Doula:: - What training have you had? (If a Doula is certified, you might consider checking with the organization.); - Do you have one or more backup Doulas for times when you are not available? May we meet her/them?; - What is your fee, what does it include and what are your refund policies?
When Interviewing a Birth Doula:: - Tell me about your experience as a birth Doula; - What is your philosophy about birth and supporting women and their partners through labor?; - May we meet to discuss our birth plans and the role you will play in supporting me through birth?; - May we call you with questions or concerns before and after the birth?; - When do you try to join women in labor? Do you come to our home or meet us at the place of birth?; - Do you meet with us after the birth to review the labor and answer questions?

*DONA International website