Give the gift of love.
Doula FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Who hires a doula?
I love the diversity of clients that doulas get to support. Typically people that hire doulas have a good idea of what they want for their birth, but they have some anxieties about how they will navigate it all. What I want you to know is that I support families in whatever dynamic they come to me in.
What does a Postpartum Doula do?
A postpartum doula helps the parents learn to care for and bond with their newborn, by guiding them through the practicalities of newborn care. The teaching that a doula does usually builds the confidence of the parents, allowing them to care for their newborn independently, very quickly. Many postpartum doulas have experience with multiples, premature babies and “fussy” babies.
If the family is settled and the postpartum doula still has time she may help with household tasks such as laundry, food prep, light cleaning and childcare to allow the parents time to rest and relax. A postpartum doula can also help with breastfeeding, community resources and informational support for family decisions. The main focus of postpartum doula care is helping the parents integrate the baby into the family.
What don’t Doulas do?
A doula is not a medical professional. A doula does not give medical advice, but can provide public medical information, and will facilitate asking questions to get the information you need to make informed choices for your family.
A doula does not perform any medical tasks – like vaginal exams, listening to the heartbeat or catching babies etc. Doulas do not make any decisions for their clients, but will help you understand your options.
What are the benefist of doula support
There are many studies that show the benefits of doula support. This one from Evidence Based Birth is great! For birth doulas, the studies reflect: 31% decrease in the use of Pitocin* • 28% decrease in the risk of C-section* • 12% increase in the likelihood of a spontaneous vaginal birth* • 9% decrease in the use of any medications for pain relief • 14% decrease in the risk of newborns being admitted to a special care nursery • 34% decrease in the risk of being dissatisfied with the birth experience* Most importantly, doulas help normalize the whole pregnancy, birth and postpartum experience.
Do doulas work with surrogacy or gestional carriers
Yes. Doula support can often be negotiated into the surrogacy contract.
Are Doulas covered by MSP?
Doulas are not covered by the BC Medical Services Plan. However, Sun Life approves Doula Canada Certified Doulas, and Manulife provides coverage for birth doula support up to $1000. Doulas are hired privately by families, ensuring they work exclusively for their clients.