Frequently asked questions.

What is a full spectrum doula?

A support person who brings the doula model of care to any pregnancy discourse and outcome, including miscarriage, planned abortion or medical termination, stillbirth, surrogacy, or adoption. A full spectrum doula acknowledges that those who have had past traumatic experiences regarding pregnancy and childbirth carry those experiences with them, and they will ultimately have a different experience of pregnancy than many might expect. We provide support for any situation, unexpected or otherwise. We are reproductive justice advocates and womb warriors, and we believe that every pregnant woman and human deserves dignity, respect, and support. A full spectrum doula believes that their work is not just in childbirth, but that it covers the entire spectrum of pregnancy outcomes.

What kind of support should we expect to receive from a doula?

Emotional support by creating an atmosphere of safety, encouragement, reassurance, and validation in their experience with a continuous physical presence throughout pregnancy. Educational support by providing clients with evidence-based information on pregnancy, labor, and postpartum options. Helping simplify information to meet their learning style as well as provide them the tools to advocate for themselves. They provide nonmedical advice. exercises, visualization, acupressure, relaxation, and nonpharmaceutical pain relief measures. Physical support by offering comfort measures, labor repositioning, massage techniques, breathing. Psychological support by anticipating the psychoemotional needs by fielding for triggers, fear, and traumas during pregnancy and birth. Be responsive and provide mental health support resources. Partner support by encouraging partners to participate at their level of comfort. Fostering an environment of inclusion and opportunities to confidently support their laboring partner. Advocacy by working alongside the client to build confidence in advocating for their own needs, communicating with clinicians, and acting as a liaison with the birth team, including hospital staff. Maintain an understanding of how bias impacts birth outcomes and fill in the gap for marginalized people.

Do you meet with me after the birth?

Hiring a postpartum doula is just as important as hiring a birth doula. Most doulas offer both services. You may receive a postpartum visit with your doula package but if not then adding a postpartum package to your services will be optimal to ensure your receive a continuum of care.

How do you work with a husband or partner?

You may often hear doulas say, "I don't replace the partner. I support the whole family." Your doula will work to teach the partner to provide the same support as they do. Doulas answer any questions your partner may have, encourage them to actively participate, and support them as they work to advocate for you and your baby.

How do you work with a midwife or doctor?

Doulas love to collaborate with providers. We don't provide medical advice rather we provide evidence-based information so that you make educated decisions. If you find a provider that doesn't like their patients utilizing a doula, ask them why. Also, ask your doula how they navigate providers who don't care for doulas.