Understanding The Role Of A Doula

Pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum period are times of major change physically, emotionally, and mentally. Many families explore additional support beyond their medical care team to help them feel more prepared and supported throughout the experience. One option you may hear about is working with a doula.

What is a doula?

A doula is a trained, non-medical professional who provides continuous emotional, physical, and informational support during pregnancy, labor and delivery, and the postpartum period. Unlike OBGYNs, midwives, or nurses, doulas do not provide medical care, diagnose conditions, or deliver babies.

Instead, doulas focus on supporting you as a person. They help you understand your options, prepare for birth, and feel heard and supported during each stage of your journey.

How doulas complement your medical care team

Your medical care team plays a critical role in monitoring your health and your baby’s health, managing medical needs, and guiding clinical decision-making. Doulas work alongside, not in place of, your medical team.

A doula can provide education and resources, so you feel informed about labor, delivery, and postpartum recovery. They offer emotional reassurance and encouragement, support communication between you and your care team, and assist with comfort measures during labor such as breathing techniques, positioning, and relaxation strategies.

Together, OBGYNs, midwives, nurses, and doulas provide well-rounded support that covers both medical care and non-medical needs.

Benefits of working with a doula

Research has shown that doula support can be associated with positive outcomes for birthing parents. Many families report increased satisfaction with their birth experience, reduced stress and anxiety during pregnancy and labor, and the benefit of continuous one-on-one support during labor and delivery. Doulas can also provide additional guidance and reassurance during the postpartum period.

For many families, having a doula means having someone whose sole focus is supporting their comfort, preferences, and overall experience.

Insurance coverage and access to doula care

Access to doula services is growing. In some states and through certain health plans, doula services may be covered by insurance or Medicaid. Coverage varies by location and by plan, so it is important to check with your insurance provider to understand what benefits may be available to you.

Even when services are not fully covered, many families choose to include doula care as part of their broader support network during pregnancy and postpartum.

Doula referrals through trusted partners

Advantia Health does not directly provide doula services. However, we recognize the value of non-medical support during pregnancy and postpartum, and may refer patients to trusted doula service providers, such as Pacify.

Pacify connects families to experienced doulas and other perinatal support professionals and offers accessible support that complements the care you receive from your medical care team.

Building your support team

Every pregnancy and birth experience is unique. For some families, adding a doula to their care team provides reassurance, education, and continuous support that enhances their overall experience.

If you are interested in learning more about doula services, talk with your medical care team or ask about referrals to organizations like Pacify to see if this type of support is right for you.Learn more [ https://pacify.app.link/e/whatisadoula ].