FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
about doulas
about childbirth preparation
about breastfeeding
See our breastfeeding page.
What is a doula?
The word "doula" comes from ancient
Greek and has been applied to childbirth to refer to "...a woman experienced
in childbirth who provides continuous physical, emotional and informational
support to the mother before, during and just after childbirth."
(Klaus, Kennell and Klaus in Mothering the Mother)
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What are the benefits of having a doula?
Aside from the emotional and physical comfort
a doula provides, numerous studies have concluded that the presence of a doula
can significantly impact the use of interventions for labour and birth. In
North America, combined data from five trials indicated a reduction in epidural
rate by 16%, reduction in forceps by 32% and the reduction in cesarean deliveries
by 21% (Klaus JH, et al, "Continuous emotional support during labour
in a US hospital: a randomized control trial," JAMA, 265:2197-2201, 1991).
Similar studies have also concluded that mothers tended to breastfeed longer,
suffered less postpartum depression and had greater satisfaction with their
birth experience.
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I am pregnant with my second baby, how would I benefit
from the services of a doula?
Once a woman has gone through birth she
has a much better idea of what she really enjoyed about the birth and what
areas were disappointing. Up to 30% of our clients are already moms and use
our services because they felt something was missing... When we have the opportunity
to meet, many moms are surprised to realize how many different positions and
techniques there are available to comfort a labouring woman. They also feel
reassured that their partners can tend to the needs of their other child(ren)
when they go into labour, knowing that they will receive constant support.
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What does a doula do?
A doula provides services that are distinct
from any other member of the maternity team, as she has no clinical responsibility
and can therefore focus solely on your comfort. She has the benefit of meeting
with you and your family prenatally to address questions and concerns you
may have about your upcoming birth. Then that same doula is available to attend
to you at your labour and birth. You will feel reassured that the relationship
you formed with your doula during your pregnancy will ease your anxiety. The
doula's main focus is providing you with physical and emotional comfort measures
that help attain a fulfilling birth experience. Your doula will follow-up
with you at home to discuss your birth and answer basic questions about newborn
concerns and breastfeeding. This continuity of care is unique and provides
women with an optimal birth experience.
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If I already have a partner, doesn't the role of the
doula become redundant?
The doula actually brings you closer together
by aiding you both to work more effectively together. Partners feel more relaxed
in the presence of a doula because they know that they are not solely responsible
for your comfort and support. The doula will assess each partner's comfort
level and make suggestions accordingly on how your partner can help support
you. For example, the doula might suggest a simple massage that your partner
could do or demonstrate how and where to apply counter-pressure. Because the
partner knows we will not leave your side, they feel reassured to take a break
when needed. Private time together is always honoured and the doula will never
intrude on those quiet moments alone.
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How will my maternity team feel about the presence of a
doula?
A Doula is recognized as an important member
of a woman's support system for labour and birth. Whether a home or hospital
birth, doctor or midwife, doulas undeniably enhance the woman's experience,
which leaves her feeling great about all the wonderful care she received.
Experienced doulas have benefited from the knowledge and skills that exceptional
nursing care has brought to the birth setting, and likewise doulas have shared
expertise on supporting women that has been welcomed by the maternity team.
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Will a doula support my choice for an epidural?
Our organization stands behind our philosophy
of choice, respect and understanding. We do not have a vested interest in
how you give birth, only that you make informed choices surrounding the options
that are available to you. Prenatally, we will review carefully your expectations
for labour and clarify any questions or concerns you may have about the use
of pain medications. Ultimately we respect and honour any choice that a woman
makes regarding her birth without judgment.
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What training do doulas receive?
Doula training varies throughout the region.
Our doulas are trained by Doulas of North America (DONA). Founded in 1992,
DONA is recognized worldwide as setting the standard for doula training, and
developing a code of ethics and standards of practice for doulas to adhere
to. Most doula training programs consist of basic anatomy and physiology,
emotional and physical comfort measures, interventions, postpartum wellness,
breastfeeding support and good business practices. Certification requirements
vary and we encourage you to ask any prospective doula where she received
her training.
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What does my fee cover?
Your fee will cover the basic doula services
package which includes two initial meetings, assistance in writing your birth
plan, telephone support, attendance at your labour and birth, birth pictures
and postpartum follow-up. You will pay a deposit fee when you sign a contract
for services with the balance to be paid within 2 weeks postpartum. We will
make alternate arrangements for payment on an individual basis.
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When should I start interviewing doulas?
Doulas make a commitment to be at your labour
and birth and this means that we are limited to the number of women we can
accommodate for any given month. To ensure you have ample time to make your
decision and to avoid disappointment, we ask that you contact us for your
free initial consultation as soon as you are able.
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Why take prenatal classes?
There are several good reasons for taking
prenatal classes:
- They explain what happens to your body and emotions during pregnancy,
birth and afterwards.
- They give you the opportunity to network with other expectant moms.
- You will be exposed to a wide range of views about birth and parenting.
- They help you think about your personal needs and goals regarding parenting.
- They may help you feel less anxious.
- They will teach you skills for coping with labour and parenting.
- They may help you make informed decisions regarding your options.
- Through them, you discover what community resources are available for
postpartum.
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I attended classes for my first pregnancy -
should I attend again?
Most women who take a class during their
second or subsequent pregnancy have different goals than their first time.
Many want to try and focus on creating a more positive birth experience and
work on tools for labour.
This pregnancy will also feel and be different
from the last. Your body will react differently and you have different needs.
Most couples need to talk about their last birthing exerience and see how
they might change things.
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