PEOPLE OFTEN ASK ME

A Doula is a trained professional who offers continuous physical, emotional and informational support to the mother and family before, during and after birth. The presence of a Doula is found to decrease unwanted medical intervention and increase likelihood of positive birth experience. 

A Doula establishes a prenatal relationship with you, offering resources within your community and factual information specific to your needs. A Doula offers non-medicated pain management techniques, can recommend optional birthing positions and offers evidence-based information so that you can communicate with your medical professional with confidence. A Doula offers emotional support postpartum, can be instrumental in establishing breastfeeding and directs you to medical professionals if needs arise.

IS A DOULA THE SAME AS A MIDWIFE?

No.

A Midwife is a trained medical professional covered under OHIP offering continuity of care during pregnancy, birth and 12 weeks after birth. In Ontario you are able to choose between a midwife or Doctor/OB for your medical birth care. 

A Doula offers consistent support specific to you (the birthing person and partner) throughout the pregnancy, birth and into postpartum. A Doula's support complements both a midwife or Doctor/OB without interfering with the medical care, offering additional support and helping you feel calm and informed when communicating with your medical professional. 

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CAN I HAVE A DOULA AND DELIVER AT THE HOSPITAL?

Yes. 

A Doula is here to support you wherever and however you choose to give birth. A Doula's role is to offer non-judgmental support throughout your pregnancy, birth and postpartum journey. Whether you are birthing in a hospital or at home, with a doctor/OB or midwife, as your Doula I am a complement to your choices. 

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IF I HAVE A PARTNER, CAN THEY PARTICIPATE IN THE BIRTH?

Of course. A Doula's role is to offer support specific to you and if you have a partner, the Doula helps support them as well. As a Doula I am able to offer techniques in massage and labour positions that your partner can support.  As your Doula I am also here to provide emotional support to both the birthing person and their partner, equipping both of you with information to help you feel confidence heading into this new stage of life. I also work with you both to help you feel confident when communicating with your medical care providers and advocating for your needs if and when necessary.

WHY WOULD I NEED A DOULA?

Pregnancy, birth and entering into parenthood can feel scary enough; you deserve to be supported in a way that best serves you. 

As we all know every birth is different and therefore your needs for having a Doula vary.  A first time birth might require more prenatal and labour support, a second birth might require more labour and birth support, a twin/multiples birth might require more postnatal care. The reasons to have a Doula are endless however one thing that does not change is the care I offer you. 

As your Doula I work with you to ensure you are heard and supported every step of the way. I act as your own personal resource guide, sifting out excess information and finding evidence-based information that is specific to your needs. I provide emotional and physical support during birth helping to find and maintain a sense of calm, enabling medical professionals to better focus on the technical elements involved. Offering support to both mother and partner so they both can feel empowered in their experiences. The postpartum period is a time full of learning as you figure out how to communicate with your baby, finding your rhythm together while healing your body and nourishing a new life a Doula is a helping hand offering support in whatever way fits your needs easing the overwhelm building your confidence.

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Inviting a Doula intro this sacred time of your life is not only about getting the care you need but also recieving the unique and loving support you deserve. 

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