FAQs
What is a doula?
The word doula is derived from the Ancient Greek word 'doule', meaning 'woman who serves'. The modern word 'doula' first came to be used in the 1960s, as a term for a woman who supports and assists women and families during pregnancy, birth and post-natally.
However, in my eyes, a doula is so much more. We are the continuity of care you may not get with your midwives, the safe space, the one able to take a step back and have an impartial overview of the situation. We can provide emotional support, remind you to hydrate during labour, to wee, to eat a little bit. We can time your contractions, help you change positions, drive you to hospital, be in charge of music, room sprays and battery-powered candles, be your photographer or videographer. In short, we can help enable you to have a positive birth experience, feeling supported and heard.
Do you perform any physical examinations?
No. We will never examine you, internally or externally as we are not clinically trained and therefore it is outside our remit. That's all up to the midwives!
How will hiring you affect my partner’s role during the birth?
I will support your partner as well as you, and we will discuss how you want to balance it all during our antental visits. I will not take your partner's role away from them - your partner is irreplaceable. If anything, my presence may help your partner be more present with you while I get drinks and be in the background for you both. I will be on hand to assist, be your advocate and support you both through the momentous occasion that is your baby's birth.
Will you communicate with the medical staff?
I am absolutely happy to be a gateway for communication if you would like. I will also listen to what the healthcare professionals are saying to you and help you digest any advice or suggestions and raise any questions you might have. I will also listen to any fears or concerns you might have an communicate those effectively to the healthcare professionals.
How do I know if you are the right doula for me?
Before you decide to hire me we will have an initial meeting - either face to face or via video call. This will enable you to see for yourself if you think we will be a good match as that is an absolutely fundamental part of working with a doula - you need to find someone you feel happy, relaxed, and confident around. We can discuss your expectations and hopes for my role in your birth or post-natal period and you can then go away and think about whether you think it is the right fit for you and your family.