Pregnancy and childbirth can be some of the most significant and transformative experiences in a person’s life. However, the journey to parenthood can also be overwhelming and fraught with uncertainty. In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the crucial role that doulas can play in complementing ob-gyn or midwife care by providing emotional, physical, and informational support throughout the maternal care journey. From fertility and loss doulas to birth and postpartum doulas, these trained professionals can provide personalized care and advocacy to help people navigate the challenges of fertility, pregnancy, birth, and early parenthood. In this article, we will focus on the benefits of hiring a pregnancy and birth doula or a postpartum doula, when to hire them, and how they can help ensure a positive and empowering birth and postpartum experience.

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How Doulas Support You‍

During pregnancy, a doula can provide emotional, physical, and educational support to you and your partner as soon as you hire them. They can help you navigate the healthcare system, and provide education about childbirth and infant care. During labor and delivery, doulas can assist with pain management techniques such as massage, breathing exercises, and positioning to make the process more comfortable. They can also help you communicate your needs and preferences with your medical team and provide the guidance you need to make informed decisions.

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Postpartum doulas provide support and assistance to new parents during the postpartum period, typically the first six weeks after childbirth. They help new parents navigate the challenges of early parenthood, offering practical and emotional support to help ease the transition. They can provide a wide range of services, including help with breastfeeding, newborn care, and household tasks such as cooking and cleaning. They can also support physical and emotional recovery by providing guidance on postpartum self-care and by offering a listening ear during a time when new parents may feel overwhelmed or isolated.

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The Doula Advantage

Studies have shown that having doula support during pregnancy and childbirth can lead to many benefits, including lower rates of c-sections, decreased use of pain medication, and a higher satisfaction with the childbirth experience. It’s also said that doulas can help ease anxiety and fear surrounding childbirth and provide much-needed emotional support during what can be a very challenging time. 

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Research shows that parents who work with a postpartum doula have a decreased risk of postpartum depression, increased breastfeeding success, and improved sleep habits. Postpartum doulas also help partners and other family members adjust to their new roles and responsibilities, which can help to strengthen the family unit. 

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In addition, doulas can also help bridge the gap between marginalized communities and the healthcare system. They can help individuals navigate the medical system, assist with coordinating appointments, and provide guidance on how to communicate with healthcare providers. Doulas can also provide support for decision making to ensure that all questions and concerns are addressed. At hatch health, we can match individuals with the right doulas that can provide culturally-sensitive and when needed, trauma-informed care, to help empower and educate marginalized communities on their rights and options during the birthing process. This is especially important for communities that are disproportionately affected by racial disparities and the maternal mortality crisis. 

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Common Misconceptions about Doulas

Despite the benefits of having a doula, there are still some misconceptions about them. Here are some of the most common misconceptions:

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• Doula support is only for unmedicated vaginal childbirth: Doulas can support parents regardless of their birth preferences. They can provide comfort measures and advocacy during vaginal, both medicated and unmedicated, and cesarean births.

• Doulas replace medical providers: Doulas do not provide medical care and are not a substitute for medical providers. Instead, they work alongside medical providers to provide emotional and physical support.

• Doulas are only for women: Doulas can support any expectant parent, regardless of gender identity.

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When to Hire a Doula

While it’s never too early or too late to hire a doula, hiring one early in your pregnancy can provide numerous benefits. During the first trimester, many experience morning sickness, fatigue, and are overwhelmed with the Google searches and Instagram scrolling of all things pregnancy and baby-related. Having an experienced professional to support you through this time can be incredibly helpful. 

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Hiring a doula early also allows you to get to know your doula better and share your needs, preferences, and receive support and resources you may need during pregnancy. You’ll have more time to find the right match for you, someone you click with and shares similar philosophies.  Also, the earlier you hire a doula, the more support you’ll receive in prenatal support, identifying your birth preferences, childbirth and newborn education, and postpartum planning.

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Even if you’re further along in your pregnancy, it’s never too late to hire a doula. During the weeks or days leading up to your labor, a doula can especially be helpful in calming your feelings of anxiety about childbirth. While hiring a doula late may limit your options, you can still reap the benefits, including a reduced c-section rate and increased likelihood of successful lactation.

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Having a supportive doula can make a world of difference during your pregnancy and beyond, whether you hire one early on or in the later stages. If you're feeling unsure or unsupported at any point, don't hesitate to reach out to hatch health. We have resources and providers for every stage of your birth journey, and we'll match you with an experienced doula who fits your unique needs, preferences, and budget. With virtual and in-person options, we make matching with the perfect doula for you and your family easy!

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