Benefits of Hiring a Doula

A labor doula is a non-medical professional who provides continuous labor support.  Typically, when you hire a doula you will meet with her twice prenatally to get to know her and for her to learn your preferences.  She will be on call for you during your labor, and will come when you need her.  Usually a postpartum follow-up appointment is included as well.  Because obstetricians and nurse-midwives do not typically provide continuous labor support, it is important to have a doula there for you during this time.  What a doula will do during labor varies widely and is dependent upon what you need at the time. 

One study found that having a doula reduced a mother's risk of cesarean section by  50%, shortened labor by 25%, and reduced requests for epidurals by 60%.  There was also a 40% reduction in the use of Pitocin (a synthetic hormone used to speed labor) and a 40% reduction in the use of forceps.  Maternal satisfaction is also higher when a doula is involved in the labor.

There are also antepartum doulas (or Antepartum Support Specialists), who assist mothers during late pregnancy.  Antepartum doulas specialize in assisting women who are experiencing high risk or difficult pregnancies, and provide a range of services.  Women on bed rest need help around the house, assistance in getting ready for the new baby, and often need private birth and breastfeeding classes since they may not be able to get up long enough to attend a group class. 

Antepartum doulas have special training in pregnancy complications, but women who are not high-risk may choose to hire one as well.  Teen moms may need extra emotional support during pregnancy, and may not feel comfortable in a typical childbirth class.  Mothers who have other children or who are experiencing morning sickness may need the extra help an antepartum doula can provide.

Postpartum doulas help ease the transition into motherhood by offering help during the first few weeks postpartum, when many families can use help with household tasks and newborn care.  A postpartum doula offers education and support to new families, assist with newborn care, meal preparation, and light housekeeping.  They will also assist you with infant feeding, birth recovery, and helping you learn the best ways to care for your newborn baby.

As doulas become more popular, it is becoming more and more likely that you may be able to get insurance reimbursement for various types of doula services.  Check with your insurance company.

Read about our individual doulas in the menu above.