Everything You Wanted to Ask (But Maybe Didn’t Know How)
Hey sweet mama (or parent-to-be),
If you’re exploring doula support, chances are you’ve got some questions—maybe a lot of them. And I want you to know: that’s completely normal.
Choosing a doula is a big decision. You’re inviting someone into one of the most intimate, powerful moments of your life. You deserve to feel informed, confident, and clear about what that support looks like.
So, let’s dig into the most common questions I hear—honestly, lovingly, and without judgment.
What is a doula, exactly?
A doula is a support person who provides emotional, physical, and informational care during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum.
We don’t replace your doctor or midwife—we’re a non-clinical member of your birth team who focuses entirely on you.
I’m there to:
- Hold space when you’re overwhelmed
- Offer comfort techniques during labor
- Help you prepare mentally and emotionally
- Support your partner so they feel more confident too
What’s the difference between a doula and a midwife?
Great question! A midwife is a medical provider who can deliver babies, monitor fetal heart rates, and provide clinical care.
A doula does not perform medical tasks.
Instead, I provide:
- Hands-on comfort (like massage, counterpressure, hydrotherapy, etc.)
- Reassurance and emotional support
- Advocacy guidance so you can make informed choices
- Help creating a birth or postpartum plan
We work beautifully together—each serving a unique role in your birth experience.
Do you only support unmedicated births?
Not at all!
I support all types of births:
- Unmedicated
- Epidural-assisted
- Planned cesareans
- VBACs (vaginal birth after cesarean)
- Home, birth center, and hospital births
My goal is to support your preferences and help you feel empowered and informed, no matter what path your birth takes.
When should I hire a doula?
Ideally, sometime during your second trimester—but I’ve supported families who reached out at 36 weeks, too.
The earlier we connect, the more time we have to:
- Build trust and connection
- Explore your birth preferences
- Prepare your partner for the big day
But it’s never “too late” to reach out. If you’re drawn to doula support, trust that instinct.
Will you be with me the whole time I’m in labor?
Yes! Once active labor begins and you’re ready for support, I join you and stay throughout the entire birth—whether that’s 5 hours or 25, but if it happens to be the latter, then I will nap when you nap, so I can support you at my best!
I also go on call for you at 38 weeks and remain available 24/7 until your baby is born. That means I’m ready—day or night—to support you when labor starts.
Do doulas really make a difference?
Absolutely.
Studies show that having a doula leads to:
- Shorter labors
- Fewer medical interventions
- Lower C-section rates
- Higher satisfaction with the birth experience
But more than that, doulas help you feel safe, seen, and supported—which can make a world of difference.
What about postpartum—do you help then too?
Yes! I offer postpartum doula support in 4-hour shifts, day or night.
That includes:
- Newborn care guidance
- Emotional check-ins
- Help with feeding, sleeping, and soothing
- Light meal prep and housework
- Holding space for your birth story and transition into parenthood
Because the support doesn’t stop when the baby arrives—it often matters even more.
What’s it like to work with you?
I’m warm, grounded, non-judgmental, and deeply committed to your experience.
My care blends soulful presence with practical support. I offer structured sessions before and after birth, and I customize my support based on what you need.
You’ll never feel like just another client—I treat your story with the tenderness and respect it deserves.
How do I get started?
Simple! You can:
- Book a Free Consultation to chat and see if we’re a good fit
- Explore my birth and postpartum packages
- Download free resources to help you plan and prepare
You deserve to feel confident and cared for in your journey to parenthood. And I’d be honored to walk with you.
With love & gratitude,
Jamie
Labor of Love for Birth & Beyond
