The following are questions that I am asked quite regularly.  If you have other questions, please feel free to send me an email.

How do you say "doula"?

Doula is pronounced DOO-lah.


Is a doula like a midwife?

A doula and midwife sometimes have very similar views on birth, but the major difference is that midwives are medically trained and can do the medical tasks a doctor or nurse does during a birth.  A doula is not trained medically and can not perform medical tasks like taking vitals, vaginal exams, "catching the baby", etc.


What EXACTLY do you do during labor?

During labor, I help mom with comfort measures to help relieve pain and encourage relaxation.  Comfort measures may include massage, counter pressure, and help with positioning.  I help with relaxation techniques like breathing and visualization, and verbal encouragement.  I also help parents understand what is happening around them by giving them updates and information, and helping to explain medical procedures that may be happening. 


If you do all of that, where is the Dad?

When the father is at the birth, I work with him -- not above him or instead of him.  I am very careful not to step on Dad's toes, in any sense of the word.  Dad brings something to birth that nobody else can because of the close relationship he has with the mom.  Many times dad finds himself in the midst of birth and unsure of what to do.  I offer suggestions and welcome him to participate to his comfort level.


Do you attend hospital births or home births?

I attend both hospital and home births. 


Why would someone want to hire or pay for a doula?

Doulas are specially trained to support women during birth and breastfeeding.  Doulas offer continuous support during the entire labor.  Nurses are not available continually, and have to leave at the end of their shift, even if you haven't delivered yet.  Parents don't have the opportunity to get to know their nurse before labor, but they do get to know their doula during pregnancy.  Doctors often don't come to the hospital until the mom is ready to push. 


Will my health insurance pay for a doula?

Most insurances don't pay for doula services, but it doesn't hurt to ask.  The more people that call and inquire, the more likely they are to cover it someday.  Give them a call!