Your birth Decisions Impact Your Experience
There are many decisions you and your partner will need to make leading up to your birth, and each choice can directly impact your birth and postpartum experience. Decision fatigue is very real, and there is an overwhelming amount of information circulating on the internet about what you should and shouldn’t do when giving birth and raising your baby. It’s vital to feel confident, supported and aligned with the choices you make leading up to your baby’s arrival—this is where a doula comes in.
What is a Doula?
Before exploring the impact of a doula’s presence, it's important to understand what a doula is. A doula is a trained, non-medical professional who provides informational, physical, emotional, and relational support to individuals and families throughout preconception, pregnancy, birth, postpartum, and even during experiences of loss. There are many different types of doulas, each specialising in particular life events.
The word "doula" originates from the Ancient Greek word doúla, meaning "woman who serves." It is the female equivalent of doúlos, which translates to "slave." As it is used today, the term "doula" emerged in the 20th century and has since become a well-respected profession within the perinatal and reproductive health fields.
How Can the Presence of a Doula Impact Your Birth Experience?
The decision to have a doula at your birth is entirely personal. However, research has shown that the presence of a doula can significantly enhance the overall birth experience.
A doula is not just a source of information; they provide so much more. Having a doula whose values align with yours can contribute positively to the health and well-being of your labour, delivery, and postpartum journey.
Studies indicate that having a doula present can:
Decrease the use of Pitocin and other medical pain relief
Reduce the likelihood of assisted delivery (forceps or vacuum)
Lower the chances of a caesarean birth
Help minimise birth trauma
Birth doulas offer evidence-based guidance to ease doubts, address concerns, and reduce decision fatigue. They also assist families navigate self-advocacy, pain management, birth and postpartum care planning, comfort measures, lactation support, and much more.
The presence of a doula can shift your birth experience from stressful uncertainty to supported confidence.
What is a Birthplace?
A birthplace is the location where you plan to give birth, whether it be a hospital, birth centre, or your home.
Where you choose to give birth will directly impact your birthing options. For example:
Home birth: You may not have access to medical pain management, though some midwives can provide nitrous oxide to take the edge off contractions. In the event of a medical emergency, you would need to be transferred to a hospital.
Birth centre: This setting offers a home-like environment with some access to medical pain relief, treatment, and equipment.
Hospital birth: Hospitals provide a more clinical environment, full access to medical pain relief and the ability to manage complications immediately.
Each birthing environment has its own advantages and limitations, and it’s essential to choose a setting that aligns with your preferences, safety, and comfort.
My Perspective on Home Births
I love the intimacy of working with clients who are planning home births. Supporting parents in their own space allows me to nurture them in the place they feel most comfortable. While I encourage all mothers and birthing people to prioritise comfort wherever they labour, the home environment offers a unique, deeply personal experience that differs for every client.
Ultimately, the right choice is the one that feels best for you and your family. No matter where you choose to give birth, having the right support can make all the difference.