Let’s get one thing straight, having a birth doula isn’t necessary, but boy oh boy, it sure does give one peace of mind. So, is a birth doula necessary? I would never (and neither should anyone else) tell you what you need at your birth. This is your moment. You will know what you need. If you feel you need extra support, you know it.
Ok, So I Might Need Doula Support
Think of a doula as a resource you and your partner can rely on throughout pregnancy, labor, birth, and beyond. A doula can provide physical, emotional, and informational support in many ways.
- More coping methods: Your doula can suggest ways to help ease the stress and pain of labor. For example, they can show you breathing techniques or help find a more comfortable position as you work through contractions.
- Fewer interventions: Studies have shown that doulas can decrease the need for assisted vaginal birth and lower the likelihood of a cesarean birth. If you do end up needing a cesarean, a doula can still provide reassurance and support. Your birth doula may even be able to go with you to the operating room, if you wish, instead of a partner or other support person.
- An unbiased resource: Doulas are trained to point you to evidence-based resources, so you can stay informed and empowered throughout your pregnancy and birth. They can also help you put together your birth plan by asking questions you may not have considered. Do you want the baby placed on your chest right after birth? Will you bank your baby’s umbilical cord blood?
- An advocate: Once you’re in labor, the doula can be a voice for your birth plan, helping to make your preferences known to your health care team. Your doula can also help you make decisions in the moment. (Sometimes surprises happen, and new choices need to be made.)
- Another set of hands: A doula can take a little pressure off your partner, family members, and friends.
- Better communication: Doulas can help navigate confusing situations. They can remind doctors and nurses to explain medical terms and help make sure you always know what is going on.
- Extra attention: Your doctor and nurses can’t be in the room for every minute of your labor, as they need to tend to other patients. Having a doula there at all times can help you feel relaxed, calm, and fully supported.
- A more satisfying birth experience: People who use birth doulas often report having a more positive childbirth experience.
This All Sounds Good, But How Much is a Doula?
As with everything, prices will vary from person to person. Depending on where you live, hiring a birth doula can cost between $500 and $2,000 out-of-pocket. If cost is an issue, you can ask about a payment plan. Another option is to hire a doula-in-training, who may offer their services for free or at a reduced rate.
Insurance carriers (including Medicaid) are now starting to cover the cost of a doula. This is great news for everyone. We are getting our due recognition as a true part of the birth team and families are getting costs covered.
You’ve heard “it takes a village” to raise a child. In many ways, that’s true of labor and birth as well. You can have a team of people to support you on this journey, and a birth doula can absolutely be one of them. If you would like to know more about my doula offerings, please feel free to contact me here.