Birth Doula Questions

Here you will find answers to some of the most common questions people have about a birth doula.

What is a birth doula?

A Birth doula is someone trained in childbirth who is there to provide support (informational, emotional and physical) to the mother throughout the birth process.

What does the word “doula” mean?

The word “doula” comes from ancient Greek meaning ‘woman caregiver or servant’. Throughout history women have supported other women in their community during the childbirth process, which typically took place at home.  Today, professional birth doulas take on this role when mothers are looking for someone to provide the emotional and physical support they need during their birth experience.

If I have a doula, will my husband/partner still be able to participate in the birth?

Absolutely! The doula provides support to both the mother and her partner. She ensures the partner plays a key role in the process, to the extent he/she is comfortable.

Does a doula replace my nurse? doctor? midwife?

No. Doulas do not replace any medical personnel. Doulas do not perform any medical tests or procedures such as taking blood pressure, temperature, monitoring fetal heart rate, etc. Their role is to provide comfort and support and to ensure the requests of the mother are being met.  She can also help with communication between the family and the medical staff. A birth doula does not make decisions for you, but can assist with making your needs clear to the medical staff.

What are the benefits of a birth doula?

Research has shown that when a birth doula is present, labour tends to be shorter and with fewer complications. Women who use doulas report having more positive feelings about their childbirth experience.  Doula assisted births have a reduced need for pitocin to induce labour or any other delivery assistance, such as forceps or vacuum. There is also a reduction in the request for pain medications, epidurals and cesareans when a birth doula is used.

Are doulas licensed?

Although doulas are not regulated in Canada, most doulas are trained and certified by recognized organizations and attend a program generally 2 years in length.  Before gaining certification a new doula must attend several births. Be sure you are hiring a certified birth doula by asking for their certification.  Most organizations require re-certification after a period for 4 or 5 years to ensure the doulas skills are up-to-date. Some organizations that provide certification in Canada are:  CAPPA, CBI, DONA, ICEA, and Birth Arts International.

How do I find a doula?

Any of the above organizations have a search page to locate a doula in your area.  When you find some prospects (those who are available around your due date), you should meet with each of them and bring along a list of questions. It is important to meet a prospective birth doula in person to make sure you are compatible. Here are some sample questions which should assist you in making your final decision.

Questions for a prospective birth doula:

What type of training have you had? When? Are you certified? Which organization?
Do you provide both prenatal and postpartum visits? How many?
What happens during these visits?
How many births have you attended? What was your most recent experience?
Do you have references? Ask to speak to them.
What types of births have you witnessed (Cesarean, epidural, VBAC, etc.)?
What is your fee? What is included? Do you have a sliding scale or other financing option available?
Do you have other clients due around the same time as me?
Have you ever worked at (my) hospital and/or do you know (my) doctor/midwife?
What type of back-up arrangements do you have in case you are unable to attend the birth?
Will you come to my home to provide labor support prior to going to the hospital?
Which labour-coping techniques do you think are the most helpful?
How will my partner be involved?
Can you define your role as the birth doula during labor and birth?