“You’re like a midwife, right?” The question I often hear when people are digging through their mental filing cabinet trying to comprehend what role a doula plays at a birth. Actually, midwives, nurses, doctors, and doulas all play very unique roles in the labor room. What makes a doula unique is that they only work for you, the client, and not for the hospital or your provider. Doulas are going to be the support person by your side through your labor, something else that none of the other health providers listed above can provide.
Because your doula works just for you, they aren’t required to spend time filing out your patient file and leaving the room to check on other patients. Doulas stay by your side as well as give space when needed. They are excellent at reading the room and knowing what is needed in the moment. They also spend time with you prenatally and get to know what your birth intentions are as well as your preferred methods of comfort.
“How about my partner? Will their role be overshadowed by a doula?” Absolutely not! A doula is a support partner’s best friend. They work with them at prenatal meetings to help them feel confident in providing hands on support during labor. Doulas also help support partners with in the moment suggestions in labor as well as encouraging breaks when needed.