What Is a Doula? And Why Everyone Should be Supported by One during Pregnancy & Birth?

A heartfelt catch-up between a doula and a mum-to-be — a special time to connect, share where the journey is at, and explore helpful insights and support for the path ahead.

Imagine going through one of the most intense experiences of your life—childbirth—with someone by your side who’s fully focused on you. Not your medical chart, not the clock—but your needs, comfort, and emotions. That’s what a doula does.

Labor is not just a physical process—it’s emotional, psychological, and even spiritual. As renowned obstetrician Michel Odent once said,

“To change the world, we must first change the way babies are being born.”

At the heart of that change is continuous, compassionate support—what a doula provides.

So, What Is a Doula?

A doula is a trained professional who offers emotional, physical, and informational support before, during, and after childbirth. Unlike midwives or doctors, doulas don’t perform clinical tasks—they are dedicated to supporting you and your experience.

Whether you’re preparing for a home birth, hospital birth, or a planned cesarean, a doula ensures that you are seen, heard, and empowered at every stage.

Different Types of Doulas:

• Birth Doulas: Offer continuous support throughout labor and delivery

• Postpartum Doulas: Assist with newborn care, recovery, and emotional support after birth

• Specialist Doulas: Some focus on fertility, miscarriage, abortion, or stillbirth support

“The woman who has the support of another woman during birth has a better chance of feeling whole and well after.” – Rhea Dempsey, author of Birth with Confidence

Why Doulas Matter

❅ Continuity of Care

In hospitals, staff often rotate during long labors—and your midwife or doctor may only appear intermittently. A doula, however, stays with you from beginning to end, offering continuous, focused care that isn't interrupted by shift changes or clinical responsibilities.

This consistency helps create a calm, trusting environment—something birth expert Rhea Dempsey often emphasizes as essential for progressing labor.

❅ Improved Outcomes, Backed by Research

Decades of global studies show that birthing with a doula is associated with:

• Shorter labors

• Fewer medical interventions (like epidurals, inductions, or cesareans)

• Higher satisfaction with the birth experience

• Increased rates of spontaneous vaginal births

These outcomes align with the work of Grantly Dick-Read, a pioneer of the natural childbirth movement, who believed that fear creates tension—and tension creates pain. Doulas help reduce fear by offering knowledge, reassurance, and constant presence.

❅ Support for Partners

A doula doesn’t replace your partner—they empower them. Many partners feel unsure of how to help during labor. A doula can:

• Gently guide your partner on how to offer comfort

• Suggest ways they can be physically and emotionally present

• Offer reassurance when things feel intense

This creates a more connected and team-based experience for both of you.

“Having our doula there allowed me to focus on being emotionally present, not just figuring out what to do next. She helped me be the partner I wanted to be.” – A client’s partner

❅ Comfort Measures & Advocacy

Doulas receiving comprehensive training on how to support mother during labor & birth

Doulas are trained in:

• Massage techniques and acupressure

• Breathing and mindfulness practices

• Optimal labor positioning and movement

• Communicating with hospital staff and understanding your options

They also help protect your birth space, ensuring your choices are respected—especially in fast-moving hospital environments.

Common Myths About Doulas — And the Truth Behind Them

Myths about doulas can muddy the understanding of what they truly offer. Let’s clear these up with clarity and care.

"Doulas Replace My Midwife or Doctor"

Myth: If you have a medical provider, a doula is redundant.

Truth: Doulas don’t replace medical professionals—they complement them. While doctors and midwives focus on clinical needs, doulas care for your emotional and physical experience. They bring continuity and personalized attention outside the clinical scope.

• Lamaze emphasizes that doulas don’t speak for you—they prepare you to speak up for yourself. 

• Omaha Birth & Babies clarifies that doulas offer emotional, physical, and informational support in addition to your medical team's care. 

"Doulas Are Only for Natural or Home Births"

Myth: Doulas only support unmedicated or home births.

Truth: Doulas support all types of births—whether in hospital, birth center, with an epidural, induction, or cesarean. Their goal is not a specific birth style, but a supported and informed experience.

• Maternal Moments confirms doulas assist in all birth settings without bias.

• Twiniversity echoes that doulas help families across all birth plans, including hospital and epidural-supported births.

"Only First-Time Parents Need Doulas"

Myth: Doulas are just for those experiencing birth for the first time.

Truth: Every birth is unique. Even experienced parents benefit from a doula’s support, especially in navigating varied expectations or family dynamics.

• Michiana Doula Care notes that even those who've given birth before may want doula support—whether due to changing goals or the demands of growing families.

"Doulas Are Too Expensive or Unnecessary"

Myth: Doula care is a luxury only some can afford.

Truth: While doula services are an investment, many families find the benefits—like reduced stress, shorter labor, and better outcomes—well worth it. Sliding scales, payment plans, and coverage through wellness accounts or certain insurance plans also increase accessibility.

• Some researches are showing that doula support can lead to better birth outcomes and reduced postpartum anxiety.

• Jessica Medrea Birth likens doula care to a meaningful life investment, often as valuable as major life events.

"Doulas Aren’t Qualified or Regulated"

Myth: Anyone can call themselves a doula—there’s no standard or accountability.

Truth: While regulation varies, many doulas are certified by reputable organizations (like DONA, Birth Right). Certification ensures training in professional, ethical, and evidence-informed care. Always ask about a doula’s training and approach—this ensures a safe, aligned experience.

A Story That Speaks Volumes

“My doula met me with warmth and strength. When I started to doubt myself, she reminded me I could do this. She showed my partner how to help me through each contraction. Her presence made my birth feel sacred, not scary. I will carry that memory forever.”

Doulas bring continuity, compassion, and empowerment—not replacements or agendas. By understanding the myths and truths, you can make informed decisions about whether doula support is right for your journey.

You Deserve Support

Birth isn’t just a medical event. As Michel Odent reminds us, it’s a profound moment in a person’s life—a moment that should be protected, respected, and supported.

Having a doula is not a luxury—it’s a step toward reclaiming birth as something empowering, safe, and deeply human.

Curious about how a doula could support you?

Let’s chat.

hello@thelinebetween.com.au