Question 1

What is a birth doula?

Accepted Answer

A birth doula is a trained professional who provides emotional, physical, and informational support to a person before and during labor and delivery. They help with comfort techniques, advocacy, and reassurance throughout the birthing process.

Question 2

What is a doula vs midwife?

Accepted Answer

A doula offers non-medical support during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum, while a midwife is a licensed healthcare provider who can deliver babies and provide medical care. Doulas focus on comfort and emotional support; midwives handle clinical tasks.

Question 3

What is the difference between a doula and an OB?

Accepted Answer

An OB (obstetrician) is a medical doctor who manages pregnancy and performs deliveries, including surgeries like C-sections. A doula does not provide medical care but supports the birthing person emotionally and physically during labor.

Question 4

What is the difference between a birthing doula and a postpartum doula?

Accepted Answer

A birthing doula supports you during labor and delivery, while a postpartum doula helps after the baby is born with newborn care, feeding support, and household tasks. Each focuses on a different phase of the journey.

Question 5

What are the disadvantages of having a doula during birth?

Accepted Answer

Doulas are not medical professionals, so they can't make clinical decisions or perform procedures. Some hospitals may limit their involvement, and finding the right doula can be costly or time-consuming.

Question 6

Is a doula like a nanny?

Accepted Answer

Not quite. A nanny provides ongoing childcare, while a doula supports the birthing person and family during a specific period—either birth or postpartum—with education, emotional care, and newborn guidance.

Birth Doula Training — Online Class