If you’re pregnant and exploring extra support during your journey, you might be wondering: what is a doula and how can a doula support me?
A doula is a non-medical care companion trained in pregnancy, birth, and postpartum support. Unlike doctors or midwives, doulas don’t deliver babies or provide medical care. Instead, they focus on making sure you feel informed, supported, and heard throughout your entire experience.
Doula support can be especially helpful if you want:
- A more positive, personalized birth experience
- Extra help managing labor pain
- Someone to advocate for your birth preferences
- Guidance through your postpartum recovery
Whether you're a first-time parent or have given birth before, doula care can help you feel more confident and prepared.
How can a doula support me?
At Pacify, our doulas provide support through three key phases of your journey: prenatal, labor and birth, and postpartum. Here’s what to expect:
1. Prenatal support
During pregnancy, your doula will get to know you and help you prepare for birth. Prenatal visits may include:
- Talking through your birth plan and preferences
- Answering questions about what to expect during labor
- Sharing comfort techniques and pain management options
- Offering emotional support and encouragement
This is your time to build a relationship with your doula and make sure you feel ready for your upcoming birth.
2. Labor and birth support (available for select care plans)
Doulas can provide continuous support during labor and birth. If your doula is available for labor and birth support, you can expect:
- Hands-on support like massage, breathing guidance, and positioning help
- Encouragement and emotional reassurance
- Support for your partner or other family members
- Help communicating with your medical team
Many parents say their doula helped them feel more calm and in control during labor—even in unexpected situations.
3. Postpartum support
After your newborn arrives, your doula will continue to check in on your recovery and well-being. Postpartum visits often include:
- Emotional support as you adjust to life with a newborn
- Self-care and recovery tips
- Help with newborn care questions
- Space to talk through your birth experience
This support can make a big difference in your confidence and mental health during the fourth trimester.
Do doulas replace your doctor or midwife?
No. Doulas are not medical providers. They work alongside your OB-GYN, midwife, and nurses to support your physical and emotional needs. Think of your doula as a knowledgeable teammate focused entirely on you.
Why choose doula services?
Research shows that working with a doula can lead to:
- Shorter labor
- Fewer medical interventions
- Reduced need for pain medication
Higher satisfaction with the birth experience
Doulas help you feel more prepared, supported, and confident.
