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BENEFITS OF HAVING A BIRTH DOULA:

  • 25% decrease in the risk of Cesarean; the largest effect was seen with a doula (39% decrease)*

  • 8% increase in the likelihood of a spontaneous vaginal birth; the largest effect was seen with a doula (15% increase)*

  • 10% decrease in the use of any medications for pain relief; the type of person providing continuous support did not make a difference

  • Shorter labors by 41 minutes on average; there is no data on if the type of person providing continuous support makes a difference

  • 38% decrease in the baby’s risk of a low five minute Apgar score; there is no data on if the type of person providing continuous support makes a difference

  • 31% decrease in the risk of being dissatisfied with the birth experience; mothers’ risk of being dissatisfied with the birth experience was reduced with continuous support provided by a doula or someone in their social network (family or friend), but not hospital staff

    Sources:

    In 2012, Hodnett et al. published an updated Cochrane review on the use of continuous support for women during childbirth; https://evidencebasedbirth.com/the-evidence-for-doulas/.

What is not included in Birth Doula Support?

Doulas are not medical professionals, and the following tasks are not performed by doulas:

  • They do not perform clinical tasks such as vaginal exams or fetal heart monitoring

  • They do not give medical advice or diagnose conditions

  • They do not make decisions for the client (medical or otherwise)

  • They do not pressure the birthing person into certain choices just because that’s what they prefer

  • They do not take over the role of the partner

  • They do not catch the baby

  • They do not change shifts (although some doulas may call in their back-up after 12-24 hours)

BENEFITS OF HAVING A POSTPARTUM DOULA:

  •  Postpartum doulas are experts in emotional support, active listening and encouraging new parents to follow their own heart.

  •  The doula helps with soothing techniques, offers breastfeeding or bottle feeding support, and explains normal newborn behavior.

  • Postpartum doulas can help the days go by more smoothly by helping with the baby’s laundry, doing the dishes or preparing simple, nourishing meals.

  • Postpartum doulas understand what everyone needs, and part of their role is to help the entire family adjust and settle in.

A Postpartum Doula does not:

  • Tell you how to parent

  • Diagnose medical concerns in baby or parent

  • Babysit for you

  • Replace your primary support system

How will my partner and my Birth Doula work together?

Doulas know birth, but your partner(s) know you - in fact, doulas and partners make a great team! I support whatever role you and your partner(s) would like your partner(s) to have in your birth, and encourage your partner(s) to bring the knowledge and history they have to the birth experience. I also support partners so they can get rest, nourishment, or some affirmation of their own! 

Do you work with other Birth Professionals?

Absolutely! I am happy to provide referrals for many other professionals in the area. I can direct you to chiropractors, breastfeeding consultants, physical therapists, massage therapists, mental health professionals, and others who can help you have your best birth!

I still have questions about what a postpartum doula does/doesn't do, how can I get more information?

Please see the following link, which offers more information about the role of Postpartum Doulas: www.dona.org/mothers. If you still have questions, I am happy to answer these via email or phone.

I really want a doula, but the cost isn't in my budget at the moment.  Will you offer a reduced fee or payment plan?

DONA International stands strong behind the belief that there should a be a doula for every person who wants one, and I couldn't agree more! If the cost associated with my support is not within your budget, I am happy to discuss payment plans, referrals to doulas who offer reduced/free services.  Please feel free to send an email or call me to discuss your options.

What is your radius of service?

I serve pregnant people and families in Buffalo, NY and surrounding areas . I gladly work with those planning to birth in hospitals, birth centers, and at home. Please reach out if you have questions about your specific provider or location. Please note that I do not attend unassisted births. 

How do I hire Dasia as my Doula?

Please fill the  contact form and I will be in touch about scheduling a free in-person consultation, where we will discuss your birth plans, answer any questions you might have about doula services, and go over the details of the contract. You can hire Dasia as your Doula at this consultation or from home within the next few days by signing our contract and paying a nonrefundable 50% deposit to secure your spot on the calendar.