What is a Doula?
By: Ollie Strong Birth & Postpartum Doula
Welcoming a new baby into the world is beautiful, but let's be real it's also intense! From navigating labor to adjusting to postpartum life, it's very easy to become overwhelmed. This is where you doula comes in. But what is a doula, and why should every mother have one as her sidekick through it all?
Let’s break it down.
What is a Doula?
A doula is a trained professional that offers mental, emotional, physical, and informative support to mothers before, during, and after birth. We are NOT medical providers- it is not our job to deliver babies or to prescribe medications. We are your extra set of hands, your birth bestie, calm in the chaos,and your advocate when things get tough.
There are different kinds of doulas:
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Birth Doula: These doulas support you during pregnancy and birth.
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Postpartum Doula: These doulas support you once the baby is here- think healing, feeding, sleep, and survival tips.
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Then there are some doulas that do both (like me!)
So know that we know what a Doula is - What do they actually do?
Here is what you can expect from Doula support:
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Before Birth: Education, birth planning, reassurance, and helping you feel confident in your choices.
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During Labor: Hands on comfort techniques, emotional coaching, partner support, and helping you stay grounded.
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After Labor: Postpartum healing, feeding guidance, emotional check-ins, and making sure you are cared for too- not just the baby.
Now why could every mama use one?
Let’s get one thing straight - you don’t need to be having a “natural” birth or be giving birth at home to benefit from having a doula. That is a myth, we work anywhere and everywhere. Doulas support all types of births: hospital, home, epidural, natural, c-section, VBAC, you name it we do it.
Here is why having a doula is such a game changer:
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Mothers who have doulas are less likely to need interventions like a c-section or induction
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Doulas can reduce labor time and help you cope with pain more effectively.
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You are more likely to feel heard, respected, and empowered when you have a doula to support you.
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As doulas we also support partners- so they can support you better because you deserve it!
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In the postpartum period, we help with recovery, sleep, lactation, and just feeling human again.
It's not just about the baby- it's also about you.
Motherhood doesn’t come with a manual, and every journey is different. Having a doula is like having someone in your corner who gets it, who knows what this season of life feels like, and who’s there to walk with you every step of the way.
So if you've ever wondered whether you need a doula or not- the answer is yes. Every mama deserves support, rest, validation, and someone who says “you are doing amazing” even when you’re not sure.
That's what doulas are for.
Are you looking for a doula?
Let's talk. I’m here for the messy, beautiful, and everything in between.
Contact us:
Instagram: @strongasamotherbw