Frequently Asked Birth Doula Questions

• Q: What is a birth (or labor) doula?
  A: A birth doula is a birth and labor coach. Doulas advocate for the laboring mother, and help her realize her birthing goals. The word 'doula' itself is greek in origin, and means 'assitant' or 'servant'.
• Q: Are there other kinds of doulas?
  A: Yes. Postpartum doulas also assist women. They differ from birth doulas in that they assist new moms in adjusting to life with their newborn babes AFTER the birth. Simply put: the job of the birth doula ends just as the job of the post-partum doula begins. Many doulas offer these services in tandem.
• Q: Do birth doulas deliver babies?
  A: No. birth doulas help coach women through delivery, but cannot and do not offer any medical advice, care, or treatment.
• Q: Can birth doulas be certified?
  A: Yes. Certification programs for birth doulas exist, but are not required to practice.
• Q: What kind of training is required to be a doula?
  A: A birth doula calling himself or herself a 'trained' birth doula has completed a 24 hour course of study, and attended at least 3 births. Training is offered by DONA-affiliated organizations around the world.
• Q: How much do birth doulas charge?
  A: I work on a sliding scale, so I'm happy to work with you to ensure that you are able to afford the kind of birth you desire for yourself. My standard fee is $350. To see what that includes, read my list of doula services.
• Q: What about my partner's role?
  A: A birth doula is not intended to supplant the birthing mother's partner in the birthing process. Rather, a birth doula advocates for both the mother and her partner, advising them about how they may have the kind of birth they desire for themselves, and serving them in whichever manner is conducive to a nurturing and fulfilling labor. Your partner is invited to participate in your child's birth just as he or she normally would. Some, in fact, report that the experience and wisdom provided by a birth doula make their job much easier and more rewarding.