Frequently Asked Questions

A Doula is a non-medical professional who provides emotional and physical support, and encouragement to a birthing and postpartum parent as well as support and encouragement for their partner/family during the journey through pregnancy, childbirth and the adjustment time after the baby comes home. 

A few examples are listed below. These will be discussed in detail during our prenatal visits. 

Before labour starts a doula helps you to consider what your ideal birth preferences:

• where you wish to deliver your baby (home, birth centre, hospital)
• whether or not you wish to use medication and what the parameters would be should this wish change
• what comfort measures would be preferable for you
• what if these preferences cannot be followed, what alternatives are you comfortable with
• present these wishes to your medical professional 

During and after labour and a doula is there to...

• give emotional and physical support
• help with breathing and relaxation techniques
• help with comfort support
• stay with you if your chosen support person needs a break for self-care
• provide encouragement for you and your support person
• support your decision regarding skin-to-skin contact
• support your first breast feeding (if this is what you have chosen)
• any other birth wishes you have requested

The Postpartum Doula role varies with each family but can include, for example, some of the following:

• overnight assistance to help parents get sleep
• meal preparation
• light household tasks
• companionship
• a listening ear
• support for siblings 
• evidence based, non-medical information

• replace the chosen birth partner in their supporting role
• replace your medical professional 
• give medical advice
• advocate on your behalf
• deliver your baby

No matter what you decide regarding medication I will be with you during your labour and birth experience. My role is to encourage and support you, not to direct your decisions. Every birth is unique and so are the decisions of each birthing person.

We can discuss this during our meet and greet get together.