Unassisted birth and doulas is not without risk to all involved. Unassisted birth, sometimes referred to as freebirth or unattended birth, refers to a planned birth that takes place without a qualified birth attendant present. While doulas are birth experts, doulas are non-clinical. A qualified birth attendant refers to a properly trained midwife, obstetrician, or […]
Tylenol and Autism – Evidence-Based Information and Doula Scope of Practice
As doulas, one of our most important responsibilities is to remain clear about our role and scope of practice. If you’ve looked anywhere in the media, on social media, etc., you’ve likely seen discussions about Tylenol and Autism. Families turn to us for support, information, and guidance during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. However, it is […]
How to Have a Positive Birth in the Hospital – Softening the Hospital Environment
In the US, around 98% of births occur in the hospital. While there’s been an increase of parents hoping for less interventions, most births still occur within hospitals. As doulas, we know that environment can impact hormones and how labor unfolds. So, how can we help clients have a positive birth experience even in a […]
Working as a Team – How Doulas Can Best Serve Families
As a doula, it is important your clients feel well supported and comfortable during birth. One of the best ways to facilitate that is to ensure there is no tension in the birthing space. Working as a team with hospital or midwifery staff, rather than approaching it as an us vs them mentality, can help […]
The Best Positions for Labor and Birth: A Guide for Doulas
As a doula, one of your most important roles is helping the families you serve find comfort, progress, and empowerment during labor. One powerful way to support families is through using the best positions for labor and birth. Labor and birth positions can influence how labor progresses, how the baby moves through the pelvis, and […]
Evidence-Based Strategies to Improve Birth Outcomes Every Doula Should Know
As doulas, it is important we help empower our families to have positive birth experiences whenever possible. Using evidence-based strategies to improve birth outcomes is important. We can help educate families about these things so they can make informed decisions about their pregnancy and birth. With growing research confirming what doulas have known for generations, […]