Question 1

1/ What is a Doula?

Accepted Answer

A doula is a non-medical birth professional who supports parents throughout childbirth and during the first weeks of their baby's life. Doulas understand the physiological process of birth and its impact on the whole family. They provide practical, emotional and informational support. And thrive to empower parents by helping them make informed choices about how they want to give birth and look after their baby.

Question 2

2/ What are the benefits of hiring a Doula?

Accepted Answer

Birth Doulas   Multiple randomised control studies have found that the presence of a trained doula benefits everyone. Research has found that overall, women or birthing people who have continuous support during childbirth experience a: - 25% decrease in the chance of a caesarean birth; if the birth partner was a doula it was a 39% decrease - 8% increase in the likelihood of a spontaneous vaginal birth; if the birth partner was a doula 15% increase - 10% decrease in the use of any pain medication - Shorter labours, on average by 41 minutes - 38% decrease in the baby’s risk of a low five minute Apgar score - 31% decrease in the risk of being dissatisfied with the birth experience; mothers’ risk of being dissatisfied with the birth experience was reduced with continuous support provided by a doula or someone in their social network (family or friend), but not hospital staff   More info on the studies demonstrating the benefits can be found here. ​ Postnatal Doulas   Postnatally, women who are supported can have:  - greater breastfeeding success - greater self-confidence - less postnatal depression ​ "Postnatal doulas offer evidence-based information on infant feeding, emotional and physical recovery from birth, infant soothing and coping skills for new parents and can make appropriate referrals when necessary. 
The doula can serve as a buffer for new parents who receive a great deal of unsolicited and possibly outdated advice.  By dedicating themselves to the family in this way, doulas validate and enhance the parents' intuitive ability to nurture and this encourages them to develop and implement their own parenting style", DONA International, Position Paper: The Postpartum Doula's Role in Maternity Care.

Question 3

3/ Can a Doula support me with breastfeeding?

Accepted Answer

All doulas will be able to signpost you to evidence-based information on breastfeeding and infant feeding in general. A postnatal doula will be able to provide companionship and logistical support while you start your breastfeeding journey, as well as refer your to local support groups. Some doulas have received additional training as a breastfeeding supporter/counsellor (names vary depending on the organisation) by national recognised organisations. These doulas will have extensive knowledge in breastfeeding and are qualified to provide more specific support.

Question 4

4/ Do I need to give birth at home to have a Doula?

Accepted Answer

Doulas support any type of births. Whether you are planning to give birth at home, in a midwifery-led unit or in a traditional maternity ward, you can have the support of a doula.  Similarly, whether you have opted for a c-section, a water birth or an epidural, you can a doula by your side to support you.  Doulas are not here to advise you on the type of birth you should have but to help you make informed choices and to support you no matter what your choice is.

Question 5

5/ When is the right time to hire a Doula?

Accepted Answer

Doulas can support you as soon as you find out that you're pregnant and even offer pre-pregnancy services.  ​ It's never too late to look into having doula support. Doulas can be booked at any time during your pregnancy as well as in the postnatal period. If you feel that you need support, then it is the right time for you.

Question 6

6/ What is not included in Doula support?

Accepted Answer

Doulas do not: - diagnose conditions or give medical advice - perform midwifery tasks (vaginal exams, fetal heart monitoring...) - make decision for their clients (medical or otherwise) - take the role of the birthing partner, but instead support them

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