Birth Doula in Northfield, Minnesota

A doula is a trained professional who provides continuous physical, emotional and informational support to their client before, during and shortly after childbirth to help them achieve the healthiest, most satisfying experience possible.

Midwives and OBs handle the medical side of care, while a doula focuses on non-clinical (but very important) elements such as the mother's emotional well-being, assisting with labor pain management, and advocating for the mother's preferences. A doula has a unique understanding of the mother because they typically spend more time getting to know the mother before birth. Furthermore, the doula can offer home visits for continued care after baby is born.  

Studies show that the presence of doulas improve physical and psychological outcomes for birthing people. Women who hire doulas tend to feel more confident about birth and bringing baby home. 

"[...] Doula guidance in perinatal care was associated with positive delivery outcomes including reduced cesarean sections, premature deliveries, and length of labor. Moreover, the emotional support provided by doulas was seen to reduce anxiety and stress." (Muacevic & Adler, National Library of Medicine, "The Effect of Doulas on Maternal and Birth Outcomes: A Scoping Review", 2023 May 15, 2024 Oct 9)

See more studies!

Absolutely not. The support people you choose to have are essential to helping you feel comfortable. A doula will empower your support people with education and tactics to support you best during labor. The doula can show your partner different comfort measures during labor and advocate for your wishes. A doula can also be the one to tell your MIL that no, she's not welcome in the birthing room right now, so your spouse doesn't have to :)