For many expecting parents, one of the most significant decisions they will make during pregnancy is where to give birth. In the United States, families choose to give birth in hospitals, freestanding birth centers, or at home with a qualified midwife. In many countries, the maternity care system is more straightforward and cohesive. In the […]
OB Provider Red Flags
As doulas, we do not provide medical advice, clinical care, or catch babies. However, we are experts in helping families have positive birth experiences. Because we know just how important perinatal safety is, we support our clients in choosing or finding access to OB providers who provide safe, evidence-based care. We do not tell our […]
OB Provider Green Flags
As doulas, nothing makes us happier than knowing our clients are in great hands. While birth is unpredictable and has many variables, a caring and evidence-based practicing OB can increase the likelihood of a safe and positive birth experience. Providing clients with OB provider green flags can help them make informed decisions about their care […]
As a Doula, I Can’t Promise You a Specific Birth, But I Do Promise This
As a doula, I want nothing more than for you to have the birth of your dreams. I want you to feel confident, positive, and like your birth is nothing but a happy memory. I wish I could promise you a specific birth, but I cannot. However, as a doula, I do promise you this: […]
How Doula Support Improves Maternal Health and Birth Outcomes: Insights from a Meta-Analysis
A 2023 meta-analysis showed how doula support improves maternal health and birth outcomes. As doulas this is no surprise as we see the benefits of our support firsthand. We see families empowered and using their voice. We see families making evidence-based decisions that feel right for them. Most importantly, we see our clients having positive […]
What Doulas Can Do When Labor Stalls (Without Overstepping Scope)
Hearing the words “labor isn’t progressing” can be stressful for both birthing families and doulas. A labor stall—sometimes labeled as failure to progress—is one of the most common concerns during childbirth and a frequent reason interventions are introduced. As doulas, we play an important role when labor stalls. Not by directing medical care, but by […]