So many times I’m asked, “What exactly does a doula do?” and I’m always feeling as if the general description falls short in encompassing the range and depth of our role in supporting people through their experiences regarding pregnancy, labor, birth, and postpartum. In my time serving as a doula, my role has varied greatly from client to client dependent upon their needs and chosen (or sometimes not chosen) birthing experiences. The details of this work reside under a rather large umbrella of a word that in and of itself implies strength and upholding: support.
A doula’s support is fluid and adaptable. Reinforcing and yet, pliable. Attuning to the degrees of need that occur during a person’s time in this space. The general definition of a doula is that we provide physical, emotional, and informational support. This gives a broad explanation but I feel that it runs right over the complexities of this heart work.
Birth is in its entirety, a physically demanding feat. No matter the way in which birth occurs a doula is there to assist in ensuring their clients are made as physically comfortable as possible. We utilize a myriad of comfort techniques in order to alleviate the feelings that accompany the rapid changes birthing bodies make. These comfort measures can include suggesting position changes, using a comforting touch or counter pressure, applying cool washcloths or running warm baths, or just simply being a hand to hold. When wanted, physical touch can lessen the feelings of intense sensations and bring a state of calm and security.
A doula’s physical presence allows more hands to ensure that everyone is taken care of, nourished, and hydrated because when everyone on the birthing team feels their best, the birthing person can receive the best possible care. Support from doulas is there to help push through the hard moments, the shift changes, and the times that plans take a different direction than intended. We feel with you, breathe with you, and are there for you.
The arrival of new life can bring with it a lot of feelings and emotions that need to be unpacked or processed and we are here for that. Words of encouragement can go a long way and help keep the birthing person focused and feel confident as they labor. We are empathetic to the highs, the lows, and show up for everything in between. In the difficult circumstances that sometimes occupy a birth, we remain constant. Knowing what it means, and how important it is to hold space for our clients, great care is taken to be able to know and understand when there is a need for active support—and when it is time to step back and hold the space. Your emotional well-being is of the utmost importance to us and you deserve to feel heard and validated. As your doula, our focus is on supporting you fully, without judgment or bias through all of your choices.
In the age of information it can feel overwhelming when considering doing any research on certain topics or to look for local recommendations. Aside from expert training, education, and experience regarding the childbearing year, doulas have access to a wide variety of materials such as books, article links, and local resources that may be of interest to you. If and when desired, we can provide our clients with information on any of the topics they’re interested in learning more about, or let your know about highly recommended professionals local to you.
Go ahead, get yourself a doula 🧡
