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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Is a doula a medical professional?

A doula is not a medical professional. A doula is a trained professional who provides emotional, physical, and informational support to women and families during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. Doulas are not medical caregivers and do not provide medical care or advice. Instead, they offer guidance and support to help individuals have a positive birth experience. Doulas work closely with medical professionals, such as obstetricians, midwives, and nurses, but they do not provide medical care themselves.

How is a doula different from a midwife?

A midwife is a healthcare professional who provides medical care to women throughout childbirth. A doula is a trained professional who provides emotional, physical, and informational support to women and families during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. A very important difference between a doula and a midwife is that a doula offers you 'continuous labour & birth support', always being by your side until your baby is born. A midwife will be with you until it is time for her shift to be replaced.

What are the benefits of a doula?

Labor doulas are statistically proven to improve outcomes:

  • 25% decrease in the risk of Cesarean

  • 8% increase in the likelihood of a spontaneous vaginal birth

  • 10% decrease in the use of any medications for pain relief

  • Shorter labor by 41 minutes on average

  • 31% decrease in the risk of being dissatisfied with the birth experience

* Reference: http://evidencebasedbirth.com/the-evidence-for-doulas/

Does a doula make decisions on my behalf?

A doula does not make decisions for clients or intervene in their clinical care. She provides informational and emotional support, while respecting a woman’s decisions.

What if my baby comes too early or too late?

Once you retain your doula, she is committed to serving you whether your baby is born before or after the estimated due date.

Will my health insurance pay for my doula service? 

Some insurance companies will reimburse for doula services as ‘out of network’ care services. Make sure to check with your insurance provider and if needed, we are happy to provide you with any necessary paperwork required.

How early in my pregnancy should I book my doula?

It is never too early to hire a doula, yet the ideal time to hire one is 4-5 months before your estimated due date. Experienced doulas book early and quickly; so it always advisable to ask the doulas you speak early on regarding their availability for your due date.

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