Written by Candace Inge

Many of us at Latched Mama are birth doulas, postpartum doulas, and lactation consultants. Personally, as a birth and postpartum doula I understand the importance of having a good support system while giving birth and postpartum. Some women may be alone at birth for various reasons, so hiring a doula ensures the emotional and physical support needed during labor and delivery. While I know my husband will be by my side during labor, I know he is very squeamish and I worry he may pass out or throw up. I knew I needed a doula who could support both myself and my husband.

Benefits of having a birth doula:

Lower rate of drug intervention

Lower rate of C-section

Prenatal support

Continuous emotional and physical support throughout labor, delivery, and immediately postpartum

What does a birth doula do?:

Birth doulas are trained in many different specialties which can be specific to their own interests and knowledge of need. Doulas may offer acupressure, aromatherapy, guided meditation, affirmations, and many other specialities. A birth doula offers support through prenatal visits, labor, delivery, and immediately postpartum.

Most birth doulas offer 1-3 prenatal visits where they get to know their client and what they want for their labor experience. A birth doula offers continuous emotional and physical support during labor and delivery. Your doula typically stays 1-3 hours after birth to ensure mom is comfortable and that she is comfortable with feeding.

Benefits of a postpartum doula:

Emotional support

Newborn care instructions

Bottle feeding/Breastfeeding support

Overnight newborn care

What does a postpartum doula do?:

Postpartum doulas are trained to recognize signs of postpartum depression and anxiety which can help a new mom find the care she needs whether from her physician or a therapist. She can also be a listening ear to help mom process her birth experience. Postpartum doulas are skilled at newborn care and can instruct you on infant bathing methods, diapering, healthy sleep habits, and feeding support. Some postpartum doulas also offer overnight newborn care so that the new parents can have a full night’s sleep.

This doula hired a doula:

So why did I hire a birth doula when I know all about birth plans, what to expect during labor, and have seen countless babies born? Well, my husband and I battled infertility and I am pregnant with our little IVF miracle. I had the support of a special friend throughout that long journey that is the epitome of what a doula is. She was encouraging, she reminded me how strong I am, and she was available when I needed someone to talk to. I knew I wanted her at my birth long before I got pregnant.

I am choosing to have a birth center birth. I wanted someone with my husband and I who knows our faith journey and would respect that, who knows how holistic I am and would respect that, someone who would help me maintain my modesty standards in let’s face it, a not so modest situation to be in, and was someone who my husband and I both are comfortable around. My doula is all of those things and more. And! she has given birth to 10 children of her own.

Finding a birth and/or postpartum doula can take time. Be picky and make sure you are comfortable with the doula you choose. Most doulas offer free consults, so do not feel bad if you need to consult with more than one doula. The most important thing when choosing a doula is making sure it is someone who will make you feel empowered and strengthened. Choose someone who makes you feel comfortable and listened to. Remember, this is your birth and postpartum story.