FAQs
Find a list of frequently asked questions and their answers about Doula services.
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A doula provides practical, emotional, and nurturing support to the whole family during pregnancy, labour and after the birth of a baby
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Evidence suggests that doula support improves the experience of giving birth and your baby’s health and wellbeing shortly after birth
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Midwives are healthcare providers authorised to give medical care throughout pregnancy, labour and birth. Doulas, while not qualified to deliver babies or offer medical services, provide education, information advice and support before, during and after childbirth.
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Doulas are not midwives or obstetricians, and they cannot perform medical tasks like listening to the baby's heartbeat or performing vaginal examinations.
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People who want emotional support: Doulas can provide encouragement and reassurance.
People who want to communicate their wishes: Doulas can advocate for you during labour and birth.
People who want to feel safe and confident: Doulas can help you trust your instincts.
People who want to reduce the risk of complications: Doulas can help you communicate your concerns.
People who want to have a physiological birth: Doulas can support you in your decision to accept interventions or have an unassisted birth.
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As an overnight doula, I can help you achieve uninterrupted sleep and emotional support. I can support your partner who may be juggling work and hands on parenting.
When you sleep, your body repairs and you restore yourself.
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Many doulas are listed on directories such as:
https://www.thedouladirectory.com/
https://www.theoriginalbirthconnection.co.uk/douladirectory
A google search for ‘doula near me’ will also bring up local doulas to you and Doula UK is a widely known and well respected agency for doulas in the UK.
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Birth doulas will work at the client’s home, at a midwifery led unit and in labour wards at local hospitals.
Postnatal doulas will work at the client’s home.
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The client will usually pay for doula services .
There are some charities which may provide low cost doula services such as:
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Evidence shows that hiring a doula leads to:
a decreased risk of cesarean section
a decreased risk of low apgar scores
shortened duration of labour
increased likelihood of a vaginal birth
increased breastfeeding rates
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The cost of a doula in the UK can range from £200 -£4000. Much of this will depend on where in the country you are, what it is the client is looking for and the range of experience the doula has.
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Doulas are an invaluable part of pregnancy, birth, and postnatal care, offering emotional, physical, and educational support to families. However, many families may not realise that these services can sometimes be covered by health insurance. Carrot Fertility is one such provider that now includes coverage for doula services, making it easier for families to access the support they need.
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Ma Doula offers a full spectrum doula service including birth support, postnatal support, overnight support and early years childcare and educational consultancy
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To book doula services, start by researching local doulas online through directories like Doula UK or The Doula Directory. Then contact several doulas to schedule an initial consultation to discuss your needs and find the best fit for you.
Once you've chosen a doula, confirm your booking by discussing their packages, fees, and availability, and sign a contract to secure your spot; it's generally recommended to start looking early in your pregnancy as doulas can book up quickly.
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In early pregnancy you should expect common symptoms like a missed period, tender breasts, nausea, fatigue, frequent urination an potential mood swings due to hormonal changes.
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There are certain criteria for eligibility for a waterbirth according to NHS guidelines.
Eligibility
You have a low-risk pregnancy
You're carrying one baby in a head-down position
You're over 37 weeks pregnant
You're free of infection and other medical conditions
You have no history of high blood pressure
You have no history of bleeding disorders
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Yes, you can choose to give birth at home. This is usually recommended if you have a straightforward pregnancy and both you and the baby are well.
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An induction of labour is when labour is started artificially rather than it happening spontaneously. Reasons for induction of labour may include:
if the pregnancy has reached 40 weeks
if there is a risk to the mother or baby’s health
if the waters break but labour does not follow within a set time frame
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If you want to ensure the health and wellbeing of both mother and baby, the following should be considered during pregnancy: Maintaining a heal
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A doula typically arrives at a birth when labour begins, usually in the early stages, and will stay with the birthing person throughout labour and until the baby is born.
Most doulas are available on call for clients from either 38 weeks of pregnancy or 10 days before the estimated due date.
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It is never too early but never too late either. I take on a limited number of clients per month in order to guarantee good availability for your birth and therefore the earlier you book, the more likely you are to secure the doula you want. Also, the earlier you book, the longer you have to build a relationship and have all your questions answered.