Ok so like … what even is a doula?
I feel like I get asked this question AT LEAST 3-5 times per week. And to be fair, I get it — our work is pretty unique and diversified. Compelled by the desire to gather all my thoughts in one place, I’ve decided to condense my long-winded explanations here, in print. That way, I can simply airdrop ya’ll the link to this blog and save us both some time, you feel? I promise to keep it reaaaaal short and sweet!
In essence, Doulas are trained professionals who care for individuals & families across the entire reproductive spectrum — from birth, adoption, and surrogacy to experiences such as abortion, miscarriage, and end-of-life. Doulas offer emotional, physical, & informative support that tailors to the specific needs of each individual and every family. Ultimately, our goal is to create safe, comfortable environments that support & empower our clients throughout the various stages of life.
Like I said, I’m trying to keep this to a minimum. Short and sweet! Right? So, while I fight the urge to delve into literally everything Doulas are capable of, imma practice a bit of self-restraint and narrow our vast profession down to what I call The Big Three:
BIRTH DOULA:
A Birth Doula is your supportive companion during childbirth — a helping hand that guides you through labor, maintains your physical and mental well-being, and offers heaps of encouragement. Above all else, Birth Doulas are your rock; someone who continually provides reassurance and a listening ear. Their role is all about enhancing your childbirth experience, making it as positive and fulfilling as possible.
POSTPARTUM DOULA:
After giving birth, Postpartum Doulas act as your personal coach, leading you through the land of sleepless nights and sh*tty diapers. They are here for you and your family alike — helping new parents ease into life with a newborn, teaching baby care basics, and aiding with the birthing person’s recovery. Think of Postpartum Doulas as a supportive sibling who draws you a soothing sitz bath, cooks you questionably large bowls of bone broth, and answers all your middle-of- the-night “Is this normal?” — type questions. From taking over housework responsibilities to providing resources and connecting you with your community, consider the Postpartum Doula a marvelous go-to for making your fourth trimester feel less daunting and more manageable.
END-OF-LIFE DOULA:
An End-of-Life Doula offers guidance through the final phase of your earthly journey. Picture them as compassionate cruise directors who help to navigate the uncharted waters of the final chapter — providing emotional support to clients and their loved ones while ensuring everyone’s wishes are respected. From assisting with practical matters to maintaining a calming presence, End-of-Life Doulas aim to make you feel well-equipped for and at peace with your transition. As well as create an environment where your loved ones can grieve properly and appropriately.
So yeah — I think I’ll close it here, for now. With this introduction, I hope that I’ve painted an adequate portrait of what we, as doulas, bring to the table — across various life circumstances. Whether you’re celebrating new beginnings or in need of solace while confronting mortality, we provide comfort, empowerment, and reassurance for a comprehensive spectrum of experiences. Call me biased (because I am), but I personally believe Doulas play an invaluable role in the healthcare system overall and should be normalized universally. We’re here to support & guide you through all of life’s uncertainties, every unfamiliar territory, every known and unknown... and honestly, I think that’s pretty badass of us.
