What is the difference between a doula and a midwife?

I get asked this question a lot! There are a few differences between a doula and a midwife. Both are great. Both offer wonderful things! Doulas are focused on consistent care for you as the mother. They are going to be helping you physically, emotionally, and spiritually through the stages of labor. Although a midwife is focused on your wellness, they are also balancing the wellness of the baby as well as the possibility of other clients at a time. Midwives are trained clinical providers for birth and can do everything that an OB is trained to do, excluding cesarean. Although doulas play a non-medical role in the birth process, they are a vital role in this development of labor as they provide continuous support and advocacy throughout labor.

What is the benefit of having a doula at your birth?

There are many studies that have been done that show that having a doula at your birth can greatly decrease the likelihood of using unwanted interventions in labor. In my experience, I have found that many women feel more confident and reassured having a doula present. They know that there is an educated professional in the room who is focused on supporting them and them alone.

Does a doula replace the father/partner?

No no no! I would never want to replace the partner in any way during the birth. In my experience, I found that my support also encourages the partner with a sense of calm and confidence as they support their partner. My hope is to encourage the partner to be more involved and to provide you with the help and support you need when the time comes!

Will Bri still support my birth if I am planning to have an epidural or a Cesarean?

Yes! 100%! I had a friend who thought that I could only be her doula if she had a home water birth. That’s definitely not the case. I see my role as helping you discern and move towards the birth that you would desire. With that, I support all types of birth with no judgment of any of your birth choices.

When should I think of hiring a doula?

It’s definitely more beneficial to have more time to be able to find a doula that you connect with and feel comfortable with. You would also have more time to figure out if your insurance covers a doula or advocate for yourself to get that reimbursement!! But there’s no need to worry if you have a little bit of a late start to things! Although a doulas availability may be more limited as your due date gets closer, it’s alright to reach out and start those conversations even weeks before you’re due! Doulas are in the business of making time and creating support so we’re happy to do so if we are available.

Will my health insurance pay for a doula?

Doula support is usually not covered by most health care plans. Sad but true. But I would encourage at least trying to submit your receipts for this service to your provider. Some insurances will give partial or even full reimbursements. Flex spend account holders can use HSA/FSA cards to pay for doula services. Alongside my general payment amount, I have a sliding scale based on family income. If this is something you’d like to consider, please message me!