What Does A Doula Do and Do I Need One

If you’re expecting, you’ve probably heard the word ‘doula’ floating around in pregnancy circles.

Maybe a friend swears by hers, or you’ve seen the term pop up in a baby book.

But what exactly does a doula do? And more importantly—do you need one?

Let’s break it down together so you can decide if hiring a doula is the right choice for your birth and postpartum experience.

What Is a Doula?

A doula is a trained professional who provides emotional, physical, and informational support during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum.

Unlike doctors or midwives, doulas don’t provide medical care—but their support can make a huge difference in how you experience labor, delivery, and the transition into parenthood.

There are different types of doulas, including birth doulas, postpartum doulas, antepartum doulas (for high-risk pregnancies), and even death doulas who provide end-of-life support.

But for now, let’s focus on birth and postpartum doulas—what they do, how they can help, and whether hiring one is the right fit for you.

What Does a Doula Do?

A doula’s role changes depending on where you are in your journey. Let’s take a closer look at how they support you through each stage.

During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is filled with excitement, anticipation, and—let’s be honest—a million questions. A doula helps guide you through birth planning and answers the countless questions that come up along the way.

They teach comfort measures and relaxation techniques for labor, helping you and your partner feel confident and informed about the birth process.

Their goal is to provide evidence-based information so you can make choices that feel right for you.

Think of them as a mix between a knowledgeable best friend and a coach who prepares you for the big day.

During Labor & Delivery

When labor begins, your doula is either by your side or on call, ready to meet you.

They offer emotional support and encouragement, helping you stay grounded and focused.

They also provide hands-on comfort measures like massage, counter pressure, and position changes to ease pain and help labor progress.

In a hospital or birth center setting, they advocate for you, helping you communicate your preferences with the medical team.

Whether you choose an epidural, have a C-section, or give birth at home, your doula is there to support you in whatever way you need.

They don’t replace your partner; instead, they enhance the experience for both of you, making sure you feel empowered and cared for every step of the way.

After Birth (Postpartum Support)

The postpartum period is a whirlwind of emotions, healing, and learning to care for your newborn.

A postpartum doula provides gentle guidance on newborn care, like diapering, feeding, and soothing techniques.

They support your emotional well-being as you adjust to motherhood, assist with breastfeeding or bottle feeding, and even help with light household tasks so you can rest.

They also help you navigate family dynamics and set boundaries with well-meaning visitors.

Having someone there to remind you that you’re doing an amazing job, bring you a glass of water, and hold the baby while you shower?

Absolutely priceless.

Common Misconceptions About Doulas

1. “Doulas are only for unmedicated births.”
Not at all! Doulas support all birth choices—epidurals, inductions, C-sections, home births, hospital births, and more.

2. “A doula will replace my partner.”
Actually, a doula helps your partner feel more involved. They provide guidance so your partner knows exactly how to support you and take breaks when needed.

3. “Aren’t doulas expensive?”
While hiring a doula is an investment, some offer payment plans, and an increasing number of insurance providers and HSA/FSA accounts cover doula services. Always worth asking!

How to Find the Right Doula

If you’re considering hiring a doula, start by asking for recommendations from friends, healthcare providers, or local parenting groups.

You can also check directories like DONA International or CAPPA to find certified professionals in your area.

Once you have a few options, schedule interviews to get a feel for their personality and approach to birth support.

It’s important to find someone who aligns with your preferences and makes you feel at ease.

Be sure to discuss pricing, services, and availability so you know exactly what to expect.

Finding the right doula is kind of like finding the right wedding dress—it’s about the feeling you get.

You want someone who makes you feel supported, confident, and completely at ease.

Do You Need a Doula?

At the end of the day, hiring a doula is a personal choice.

If you want extra support, reassurance, and someone in your corner throughout birth and postpartum, a doula might be exactly what you need.

Doulas don’t replace medical providers or partners—they enhance the experience, ensuring you feel heard, supported, and empowered every step of the way.

If this sounds like the kind of support you’d love, let’s chat! I’d love to help you explore whether doula care is the right fit for you.

📩 DM me on Instagram (@yourhandle) or check out my blog for more pregnancy & postpartum resources!