From the beginning of time, people have been cared for and nurtured during pregnancy, birth and postpartum. Family, friends and neighbors from the community would rally around the new family to help guide them through their tender early weeks and months with a new baby. A doula is a person who provides emotional and physical support to you during your pregnancy and childbirth. Doulas are not medical professionals. They don’t deliver babies or provide medical care. Doulas offer physical, emotional, partner support, Evidence-Based Information and Advocacy

What Does a Doula Do

Doulas can provide a variety of services during the prenatal, postpartum, and birthing periods. Prenatally, they may provide emotional support, help with making informed decisions, or provide breastfeeding education. During labor, they can provide comfort measures, partner support, and help advocate for the birthing family. Postpartum, doulas can also offer help with postpartum adjustment and provide guidance on infant care and parenting.

When to Hire a Doula

A doula can be added to the birth team at any time in the pregnancy. Most doulas are hired during the second trimester, as this gives them the opportunity to get to know the birthing family and build trust before the baby arrives. However, it’s never too late to reach out for support. Doulas are not only beneficial to the birthing family, but to the entire medical team. Studies have shown that when a doula is present during labor, it can reduce the need for pain medications, shorten labor, and even reduce the likelihood of a C-section. This can help ease the stress and workload of the medical team and create a more positive birthing experience for the family. Considering hiring a doula for during your pregnancy? Contact The Fitness Doula to learn more about how a doula can support your birth experience.