FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
General Questions
What is a doula?
A doula is a trained professional who provides emotional, physical, and informational support during pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum period. Unlike a midwife or nurse, a doula does not provide medical care—we’re here to offer steady, continuous support for you and your family.
How is a doula different from a midwife or nurse?
Your medical team focuses on your health and safety. A doula focuses on comfort, calm, and connection—helping you feel cared for, informed, and supported every step of the way.
Do you replace my partner or support person?
Not at all. A doula works alongside your partner, making sure they feel supported too. Many partners find that having a doula allows them to be more present and involved because they don’t have to carry the pressure of “knowing it all.”
Birth Doula Questions
What does a birth doula do during labor?
I provide continuous support with comfort measures such as breathing techniques, position changes, massage, and encouragement. I offer education and support so you feel empowered to advocate for yourself and make the decisions that are right for you.
Will you make decisions for me?
No. My role is not to speak for you, but to make sure your voice is heard. I’ll provide information, reassurance, and support so you can make the choices that feel right for you.
Do you only support unmedicated births?
I support all types of births—whether unmedicated, medicated, induced, or cesarean. Every birth is unique, and my goal is for you to feel respected and supported no matter what path your story takes.
When do you join me in labor?
I’ll be in touch with you as labor begins, and we’ll decide together when it feels like the right time for me to join. Every family is different, but I usually arrive once active labor is underway.
Postpartum Doula Questions
What does a postpartum doula do?
A postpartum doula provides gentle support for the whole family in the weeks after birth. This can include newborn care, feeding support, light household help, sibling care, emotional encouragement, and guidance as you adjust to life with your baby.
How long can I hire a postpartum doula?
Some families want just a few visits in the early days, while others appreciate ongoing support for several weeks. We’ll create a plan that fits your family’s needs.
Do postpartum doulas only help first-time parents?
Not at all. Every baby brings new changes, and many families—even those with older children—find postpartum support invaluable.
What is okay to ask you to do during postpartum visits?
Every family’s needs look a little different, and my role is to come alongside you with both practical help and emotional support. During visits, you can ask me to:
- Care for your baby so you can rest, shower, or have a quiet moment to yourself
- Assist with newborn care such as diapering, soothing, bathing, or swaddling
- Support you with breastfeeding or bottle-feeding and connect you with resources if needed
- Prepare simple, nourishing meals or snacks to help keep your energy up
- Take care of light household tasks, like folding baby laundry, tidying the kitchen, or washing bottles
- Offer a listening ear as you process your birth experience and the transition into parenthood
- Spend time with older siblings to help them feel included and cared for
- Share evidence-based information about recovery, newborn sleep, and what to expect in the early weeks
Think of me as an extra set of hands and a steady source of encouragement, here to make your home feel a little lighter and your days feel more supported.
Practical Questions
When should I hire a doula?
Many families hire a doula during pregnancy to ensure availability, but it’s never too late. I often begin working with families later in pregnancy—or even after baby arrives—if space is available.
Do you take insurance?
Not yet, but this is in the works for early 2026.
What if I hire you and then my needs change?
That’s completely okay. We’ll tailor your care to fit your family, whether that means adjusting the type or amount of support along the way.