What is a Doula? Our Guide for New and Expecting Parents

Doulas have been supporting birthing people for centuries across many cultures and countries.

Many studies show what so many communities have experienced long before we could gather data about it. Doulas improve birth experiences and health outcomes for both birthing people and newborns.

If you are expecting or have recently had a baby, this guide is here to help you decide if doula support is right for you.

Did you know: Starting in 2024, Washington Apple Health (Medicaid) began covering doula services* for eligible members who are pregnant or recently gave birth. Doulas must be state-certified and set up to bill Apple Health.

*Limitations apply. Talk to your health plan about availability and covered services.

What is a doula?

Birth doulas are trained professionals who provide physical, emotional, and informational support to pregnant people and their families before, during, and after pregnancy.

Although birth doulas do not provide medical care, they work alongside your doctor or midwife to help you and your family feel informed and supported.

They will help with communication and make sure your family’s values and traditions are respected.

What’s the difference between a doula and a midwife? Can I have both?

Yes, many people have both on their care team! A midwife has medical training to provide care during pregnancy and deliver babies during low-risk births. They partner with doctors who help if there are complications.

Doulas focus on your emotional well-being and physical comfort. They also help assert your wishes to your medical care team.

**Working with both a midwife and a doula can help you have a calm, supported birthing experience.**

In another CHPW Connections blog article, learn more about the people you meet along your pregnancy journey.

How does having a doula change the birth experience?

Childbirth is a deeply personal and emotional experience that can affect the health of both the baby and the birthing parent.

While your medical care team monitors your health, your doula is there just for you. They focus on your emotional, physical, and social well-being at all times during childbirth.

Research shows that labor and delivery with the support of a birth doula can:

Reduce anxiety and stress.
Lessen time in labor.
Lower the chance of an unnecessary C-section.
Improve breastfeeding success.

Doulas also provide support leading up to childbirth and after to help you recover. All of this adds up to healthier, happier parents and newborns.

What does a doula do before, during, and after birth?

Doulas not only support during your birthing experience, but they can also be there for you before and after it. All three parts of a doula’s care focus on preparing, offering calm guidance in the moment, and talking through questions or concerns early.

Before birth, in pregnancy

As you get ready for delivery day, a doula helps you prepare and plan for it. They offer knowledge and guidance to help you make decisions early about what you may want during labor and delivery.

They are there to:

Build trust and get to know your values and wishes.
Answer questions about pregnancy and birth.
Help you understand your choices and make a birth plan.

Connecting with a doula during pregnancy can help you feel less stressed and more prepared leading up to childbirth.

During birth, through labor and delivery

Doulas offer continuous support during your birth experience to help you feel in control and at ease.

Here’s what that looks like:

Physical support and coaching through:

Relaxation techniques.
Breathing exercises.
Positions to help with discomfort.

Emotional support to help you:

Focus on your body and the
Feel confident and in-tune.
Lower stress and anxiety.

Informational support to:

Make sure your wishes are heard and respected.
Help you answer questions from the medical care team.
Know your rights and your options.

After birth, while you recover

After pregnancy you need a lot of support, no matter how strong you are. Doulas can help you and your family during this big change.

A doula will work with you after childbirth to make sure you and your baby are safe and:

Support feeding, rest, and recovery.
Answer questions about the baby and postpartum care.
Help you notice issues early and find more support if needed.

Postpartum doulas may also offer daily fee-based support like childcare or help with household chores. These services can be very helpful.

But be aware, health insurance usually does not help pay for it. Many families pay out of pocket if they want this type of support, or look for community programs or lower-cost options for this kind of support.

Doulas help create a calmer, more informed and supportive birth experience before, during, and after. But, if you just gave birth and have not worked with a doula yet, it’s not too late to ask for help.

How can I find a doula that knows my culture and relates to my values?

Many doulas work within the communities they feel most at home, providing community-centered and culturally in-touch support. Now it’s easier than ever in Washington State to find a doula who shares your values, traditions, and backgrounds.

In 2022, Washington State created a new pathway for doulas trained in ancestral traditions of perinatal care to get state-credentials. The state also eliminated fees for doula certification and renewal. Now, more doulas are able to provide their services to more people.

To find a doula in Washington State, search the Doulas For All’s Directory.

If doula services are covered by your health insurance plan, check your health plan’s provider directory to confirm your doula is in-network.

Choosing doula support can help you feel informed, confident, and cared for during one of life’s most important journeys.