Frequently Asked Questions
WHAT IS A DOULA?
Doula - The word is new but concept is ancient. In old times they were the tribe; the sisters, aunties, grandmothers, mothers and close friends who gathered around a woman and supported her through her rite of passage into motherhood.
Modern motherhood looks so different and devastatingly, most new mothers feel unsupported and fearful in birth and postpartum. THAT is what a doula is. She is your tribe, your support, your advocate and the holder of the sacred birth space.
Doulas are non-medical birth support, and we are filling a gaping hole in the birth world!
WHY SHOULD I HIRE A DOULA?
Overall, women who have received continuos support from a doula have had:
- 39% decrease in unplanned C-sections.
- 15% increase in likelihood of spontaneous vaginal births.
- 10% decrease in the use of pain medications.
- an average reduction of 41 mins total labour time.
- 38% decrease in chances of low 5 min APGAR.
- 31% decrease in risk of being dissatisfied with their birth experience.
- less likelihood of postpartum depression.
In other words, hiring a doula makes you more likely to achieve the birth and postpartum of your dreams!
DOES A DOULA DO MEDICAL PROCEDURES?
No. A doula's role does not include performing clinical procedures such as taking blood pressure or performing vaginal examinations. It also doesn't include making decisions for clients, but rather giving information so they can make informed decisions.
I cannot guarantee a "perfect" birth, but I can help you be as informed and empowered as possible to achieve the birth you want.
DOES A DOULA REPLACE MY PARTNER?
No! A doula is there to support both the birthing mum and their partner. I do not take away from that special job of a support person. Instead, I am there to help out and assist the support person so that they can be there for mum when she needs them most.
Partners often report feeling reassured by having a doula because I can help them know exactly what they need to do and say instead of feeling lost or useless, and I can take care of all the practical things so they can focus on being there for you.
WHICH AREAS DO YOU SERVICE?
Sunshine Coast, QLD and Surrounding areas including most of Moreton Bay Region. If you're not sure please contact me to discuss if I can travel to you.​
Yes! I primarily attend freebirths actually, and it is where my passion lies. I have had two freebirths myself (read about them here).
In the instance of a freebirth where there is no midwife or obstetrician present, a doula's services do not replace those of a trained health professional and the client takes full responsibility for all outcomes of these births.
I HAVE ANOTHER QUESTION!
If you have more questions, please contact me. I would be more than happy to have a chat on the phone or via text. There are no questions that are off-limits, and no such thing as a "silly question"!