How is a doula different from a midwife?

A doula is a qualified birth companion. A doula provides informational, physical and emotional support during pregnancy, birth and in the early post-partum. A doula’s primary focus is on the emotional, physical and spiritual well-being of the mother. Unlike a midwife, a doula does not perform any medical or clinical procedures (and the accompanying paperwork) leaving her free to focus entirely on the birthing mother.

You will need a midwife or obstetrician in addition to your doula (unless you are planning an unassisted birth).

Will a doula interfere with the role of my partner during birth?

Doulas recognise the huge support that partners/husbands and other support people offer to birthing women. A doula will not dominate the support role but will integrate in to the birthing team. Additionally a doula may be able to help partners and other support people to be more involved in the birth by suggesting ways they may offer comfort and reassurance to the birthing mother.

What happens if I need a cesarean?

In most cases a doula will continue to offer her services as much as is allowed by the medical team. Depending on the hospital and the preferences of the medical staff involved, a doula may or may not be allowed in the operating theatre and recovery.