Why hire a doula?
Your baby’s birthday is going to be one for the books. Not only is it their special day, but it is the day you become a parent (or become a parent again).
We invest a lot in other important days: weddings, birthdays, graduations and retirements. Why wouldn’t we want to do the same for your baby’s entrance into the world?
A doula does not guarantee a particular birth outcome. Rather, they prepare you for multiple outcomes and choices, and support those choices 100%. Their presence and expertise can be the difference in how you experience the events of your birth–by holding space, empowering, and comforting you along the way.
What does a doula do?
So much! They physically support you through labor with things like counter-pressure, massage, and breathing and relaxation techniques. They are your cheerleader and confidante throughout pregnancy. They help facilitate your and your partner’s decision-making and empower you to advocate for yourself. They encourage you to move and change position in labor, often strategically based on baby’s location in the pelvis. They hold space and bear witness to one of your most important days.
I really like my OB/GYN or midwife. Do I really need a doula?
Yes! Choosing a medical provider you trust is hugely important, but that provider has a panel of other patients to care for, both prenatally and during your labor. Their job is to keep you and your baby safe, your doula’s job is to walk with you through each step of the process. You will see your OB or midwife several times during your labor, but your doula will remain with you continuously.
What about my partner?
Your doula is also your partner’s doula. We educate and empower them to support you to the best of their ability. Sometimes this looks like your doula taking a back seat, offering suggestions to your partner and snapping photos, and other times it looks like your partner getting a much-needed power nap while your doula helps you through a chunk of labor.
I’m planning on an epidural. Do I still need a doula?
Doulas are so useful for folks receiving epidurals! They will help you with decision-making around the right time (for you!) to get one, help you cope with contractions pre-epidural, and help you with position changes post-epidural. Fun fact: though you can’t get out of bed with an epidural, you can still continue moving and changing positions frequently.
Danielle McFadden Birth LLC 