Frequently Asked Questions

What is a doula?
A doula is a trained and experienced non-medical professional who provides continuous physical, emotional and informational support to a pregnant person before, during and after birth.
​
A doula is a support directly for the birther, and their partner(s) (if applicable). Doula's are not medical professionals, however they can serve as a "middle person" between the healthcare workers and yourself.
Why should I hire a doula?
The benefits of hiring a doula are limitless, and choosing to do so is prioritizing your own well-being, and the well-being of your baby, through your transition to parenthood.
​
Research shows that hiring a doula can:
​
-
Reduce the risk of an emergency cesarean (39%), assisted births (forcepts + vacuum), or need for augmentation.
-
Increase the likelihood of a spontaneous vaginal delivery by 15%.
-
Decrease the need for medical pain management.
-
Improve the likelihood of high APGAR scores after birth and reduce the risk of low birth weight (4x less likely)
-
Reduced labor duration.
-
Reduce the likelihood of birth complications for themselves or their baby (2x less likely).
-
Significantly increase the likelihood of birth satisfaction as reported by the birther.
*stats from Evidence Based Birth*
What does a doula do?
A doula provides continuous emotional, physical and informational support, as well as advocacy.
​
Emotional Support:​
-
Continuous, non-judgemental and supportive presence
-
Words of encouragement and reassurance
-
Helping you view your experience in a positive light.
-
Support with feelings of worry, overwhelm, disappointment or self-doubt.
-
Ensuring that you and your support(s) are taken care of
-
Mirroring and active listening
​
Physical Support​
-
Understanding of the physiology of birth and providing physical support to assist the birthing process.
-
Use of massage, counter pressure or other physical comfort measures to support you in your labor journey.
-
Creating a calm, peaceful environment that is in tune with your wishes and promote the flow of oxytocin in the birthing process.
-
Applying hot/cold compresses, assisting with any of your physical needs.
-
Helping with your desired or preferred pushing positions.
​
Informational Support
-
Advocating for your wishes and rights
-
Translating medical jargon and providing information on options/interventions to ensure you are able to make an informed choice.
-
Helping you prepare for prenatal appointments with information on what you may expect throughout your pregnancy.
-
Understanding the physiology of birth, and the stages of labor to support you in feeling in control, and informed.
What does a doula NOT do?
Doula's are not medical professionals,
and therefore they do not:
​
-
Offer personal advice, just evidence-based facts so you can make your own informed choice.
-
Replace or substitute for a doctor, midwife or other healthcare professional (ie. nurse, lactation consultant)
-
Speak for you. I will advocate on your behalf, however I do not make medical decisions for you or intervene in your clinical care.
-
Pressure you into a specific decision based on my own personal beliefs or preferences.
-
Replace your partner(s); I work alongside you as a continuous support to help you feel empowered and in control.
-
Complete clinical exams such as fetal monitoring or cervical checks.
​
I would love to have a doula, but I am not sure I can afford it. What can I do?
Doulas are not covered by MSP, and I recognize that this is not accessible for everyone. Hopefully one day having a doula can be a universal right for all women (I mean look at the benefits above!).
​
I am a Registered Social Worker, and if you have extended benefits you may be able to claim all, or a portion, of your doula fees! I will provide you with a detailed receipt upon payment which can be submitted to your extended benefit provider.
​
Other options are:
The BC Doulas for Aboriginal Families Grant Program - https://bcaafc.com/dafgp/families/
*I am registered*
​
The Doula Services Association of BC - Volunteer Doula Program