FAQ
Why is there a need for Doulas?
Over the years due to pressures on the health services and child birth moving from home to hospital, women have lost the support from one carer throughout her labour. Extended family too, used to be around, (mothers/sisters etc..) to help the new mother, however in this day and age, this is not always the case. A Doula can provide that lost continuous support to the mother.
Do Doulas take over the role of the father?
Doulas do not take over the father's role. They are there to support them as well as the mother. We can give fathers confidence to help support his partner, sometimes enabling their relationship to become stronger. Fathers are emotional too, so we can see over this to make sure mums best interests are made clear. We are also there to help when dad may need to leave her side, to make phone calls, have something to eat and stretch his legs etc.
How long do you have a Doula for?
Every woman who is pregnant or just had a baby deserves to be cared for. If it is a birth Doula you would like for support, make sure you have chosen the woman you feel most comfortable with. This Doula will get to know you before birth, then she will be with you from when you call to say you are in labour. Either coming to your house and going with you into hospital, or meeting you there. She will then, be there for you, until your baby has been born.
If it is a post natal Doula she can be there for you as long as you feel necessary. Normally it is around 3 hours a day, 3 times a week for around 6 weeks. It can be longer or shorter. Every woman and family is unique and requires different things.
Is a Doula the same as a midwife or health visitor?
Doulas are not medically trained (although some may have been midwives or health visitors in the past). Doulas are mothers themselves and understand the valuable support that can be given to labouring mums or mums with new babies. They are not there to give advice to new mothers on what to do but to listen and give reassurance to the parents and offer information.