Why Hire a Doula?

Birth is one of the most intense days of your life—physically, emotionally, and mentally. A doula’s job is simple: to be your steady support person, helping you feel safe, informed, and empowered from pregnancy through postpartum.

And it’s not just “nice to have.” Research on continuous labor support shows meaningful benefits for many families.

What Research Shows

Large reviews of studies have found that when a birthing parent has continuous, one-to-one support in labor, they are more likely to experience:

  • Shorter labors on average

  • Higher likelihood of a spontaneous vaginal birth

  • Lower rates of cesarean birth and fewer assisted births (forceps/vacuum)

  • Less use of pain medication, including epidural/spinal analgesia

  • Greater satisfaction with the birth experience and fewer negative feelings about childbirth

  • Positive newborn indicators (e.g., fewer low 5-minute Apgar scores in some studies)

Both American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and World Health Organization highlight the value of continuous support/companionship in labor as part of quality maternity care.

Every pregnancy and birth is different. A doula doesn’t guarantee a specific outcome — but research consistently shows that continuous support can improve the experience and reduce unnecessary interventions for many families.

Close-up of an adult's hand with black painted nails gently holding a newborn baby's tiny feet, lying on a soft, textured surface.

What does a Doula do?

Calm, steady presence

Hospitals are busy. Nurses rotate. Partners get tired. A doula is there to help you feel grounded and supported through the entire process—especially during long labors or unexpected changes.

Comfort measures that make labor more manageable

Hands-on and practical support like:

  • positioning guidance

  • breathing and rhythm

  • counter-pressure and massage

  • movement coaching

  • creating a calm environment (lighting, sound, pacing, reassurance)

Support for informed decision-making

When choices come up (and they usually do), a doula can help you:

  • understand what’s being offered and why

  • slow the moment down

  • ask good questions

  • feel confident in your preferences

This is one reason continuous labor support is linked with fewer interventions overall.

Partner support

A doula doesn’t replace your partner—she supports your partner. Partners often tell me they love having someone who can:

  • suggest what to do next (without guessing)

  • give them breaks without leaving mom alone

  • help them feel useful and confident

Postpartum and feeding support

The early days at home can be tender, exhausting, and emotional. Postpartum doula support helps bridge the gap between “we’re home!” and “we’ve got this.”

Postpartum care can include:

  • breastfeeding guidance and troubleshooting

  • newborn soothing and sleep rhythm support

  • meal and hydration reminders

  • emotional support and birth debrief

  • practical help so you can rest and recover

A doula is non-medical support. She does not replace your doctor or midwife, and she doesn’t make clinical decisions. She supports you emotionally, physically, practically, and informationally—working alongside your care team.