Doula myths debunked: understanding the role of a birth doula
One of the biggest misunderstandings I see in the birth world is the role of a doula. By definition, a Doula is : a person trained to provide advice, information, emotional support, and physical comfort to a mother before, during, and just after childbirth. We are not there to replace any other member of your birth team. Your partner should be just that, it is their experience too and a doula should not replace them. Your Midwife or OB are your medical providers and a doula should not be hired to catch/deliver your baby.
Doulas are available for support. What support specifically looks like can vary from person to person and even from birth to birth with the same person. However, the scope of what a doula should be performing, is all under support. I think one of the greatest aspects of having a doula is the ability to travel your journey into parenthood with someone you chose to be there just for you. It is important to find a doula you trust and believe in and can return those same feelings towards you.
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