Frequently Asked Questions
What is a doula?
The Greek work doula means woman caregiver. we now use the word to describe a trained and experienced labor companion who provides the birthing person and their partner continuous emotional support, physical comfort and assistance in obtaining information before, during and just after childbirth to help them achieve the healthiest, most satisfying experience possible.
A birth doula recognizes birth as a key life experience that the birthing person will remember all their life and perceives her role as one who nurtures and protects the birthing person’s memory of their experience. She understands the physiology of birth and the emotional needs of the laboring person and helps facilitate communication between the laboring person, their partner and clinical providers.
A doula’s role is to support the desires of the birthing person. A doula is NOT a medical profession and does not offer medical advice.
Why should I hire a doula?
A doula can help you have a more positive and empowering birth experience. A doula will provide you with information, support and comfort throughout your entire labor and birth experience.
Research shows that continuous support from a doula during labor and birth results in positive outcomes for the birthing person and baby. Compared to birthing people who labored without continuous support, those laboring with continuous doula support are:
34% less likely to rate their childbirth experience negatively
28% less likely to have a cesarean section
31% less likely to use synthetic oxytocin to speed up labor
9% less likely to use any pain medication
is a doula the same thing as a midwife?
A doula is NOT a doctor or midwife and does not diagnose, or treat pregnancy or postpartum related symptoms. A doula is not a replacement for a licensed medical professional. Because she doesn’t have these responsibilities, your doula can be fully present and supportive for your entire labor and birth.
when should i hire a doula?
It is never to early to hire a doula! Many experienced doulas book early, so it is recommended to find the right person for your team 5-6 months in advance of your estimated due date.
can i benefit from a doula if i’m planning on pain medication, a scheduled cesarean birth or it’s not my first pregnancy?
Yes! A doula is there to provide information and support no matter what type of birth experience, planned or unplanned, you will have. Depending on the situation and your provider, your doula may accompany you into the operating room.
How do i choose the right doula for me?
We recommend interviewing a few people to learn about their style and then trust your gut. We would love to meet with you and offer a free 30-minute introduction via phone, video conference or in-person. Contact us to schedule a meeting!
What is an IBCLC
International Board Certified Lactation Consultants function and contribute as members of the maternal-child health team. They provide care in a variety of settings, while making appropriate referrals to other health professionals and community support resources. Working together with families, policymakers, and society, IBCLCs provide expert breastfeeding and lactation care, promote changes that support breastfeeding and help reduce the risks of not breastfeeding.
What is the service area of Evergreen doula services?
We focus on Evergreen and other communities in the Denver foothills. However, we do take clients in other areas of Denver as well - reach out to find out if we are available in your location.