What is a Doula?
If getting pregnant is in your short-, mid-, or long-term plan, you should highly consider getting a doula as part of your birthing team and incorporating that into your birth plan. Before we dive further into this post, let’s clarify some key terminologies to make reading this easier.
Doula
A trained birthing companion that provides non-medical support during pregnancy, labor, delivery, and the early stages of postpartum.
Birth Plan
A document outlining preferences during your labor and delivery process. This can include who you want to be present, decisions on medications (if any) to be administered, or general information on the aesthetics of the environment you’re planning to give birth. Basically, it’s your plan to ensure you have the most comfortable experience.
Birthing Team
The team of individuals who will support you during labor and delivery.
Why Do You Need a Doula?
Doulas are one of the most important tools in the fight against the rising maternal mortality rates that disproportionately affect Black women. Research shows that doulas improve birth outcomes and reduce maternal mortalities. Doulas provide a calming presence and supportive reinforcement to Black mothers, which is very critical given the racial discrimination and bias they face in maternal wards.
The Statistics
- Black women are 3 to 4 times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than white women nationally.
- In New York City, Non-Hispanic Black women are 9 times more likely to die than non-Hispanic white women.
- Infant mortality rates are also higher for Black infants.
Given this grim backdrop, it is imperative that any Black woman desiring pregnancy should consider hiring a doula. The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ACOG) even confirms this by noting that “the most effective tool to improve labor and delivery outcomes is the continuous presence of support personnel such as a doula.”
Historical Context
The concept of a doula is not new. Before the 1930s, women usually gave birth at home surrounded by relatives, female friends, and midwives whose sole purpose was to support the mother and prepare the necessary tools and supplies needed during and after birth. Some of those attending at the bedside then are now what we call doulas. It wasn’t until medicine became privatized and grew in popularity that maternal mortality rates started to skyrocket. At-home births decreased significantly as more individuals opted for hospitals, but the outcomes were not always ideal. Pain-free childbirth does not equate to safe childbirth.
FAQs on Doulas
Who is a birth doula?
A trained birthing companion that provides emotional and physical support throughout your pregnancy and during labor.
What does a doula do?
In addition to providing emotional and physical support, a doula aids in birth preparation by offering resources to the expecting family. Support can look like accompanying your prenatal visits, breastfeeding support, massage, aromatherapy, photography, and other resources.
What is the difference between a doula and a midwife?
A midwife is a specially trained health professional (usually a nurse) who cares for the mother and newborn around and during childbirth. Midwives train and receive licensing after three years of study. A doula, on the other hand, offers non-medical support to the pregnant person and their families. At birth, a midwife and doula can be found doing similar tasks to assist the pregnant person.
When should I hire a doula?
The sooner, the better—especially if this is your first pregnancy and you want to ease any jitters and fears you may have. On average, people hire a doula at the beginning of the third trimester.
Does a doula accept health insurance?
Generally no, but some insurance companies cover all or part of the cost. It depends on whether your insurance covers it and if the doula accepts insurance. Best bet, shop around and find the right doula for your needs.
What is the average cost to hire a doula?
On average, hiring a doula can run from $500 to $3,000 per birth depending on experience and years in the business. Postpartum doulas usually charge hourly.
Are doulas certified to practice?
Some doulas are certified; however, a doula can practice without being licensed. There are plenty of courses offered to provide doula training.
Why should I get a doula?
The support and guidance of a doula can make a significant difference in your birthing experience. For Black pregnant persons, having a doula can be particularly crucial due to the increased risks they face. A doula offers continuous, compassionate support that can help ensure a safer and more positive birth experience.
Ready to learn more? Continue exploring our blog for in-depth insights and personal stories from families who have benefited from the support of a doula.
