What Does a Doula Actually Do?
What Does a Doula Actually Do?
The Heartfelt Support You Didn't Know You Needed (But Totally Deserve)
If you’re expecting a baby and hearing the word doula pop up more often—but you’re not totally sure what it means—you’re not alone!
Many people have heard of doulas but don’t really know what we do—or assume we’re just like midwives. The truth is, we’re not medical professionals, but we are trained professionals in emotional, informational, and practical support. And that support can make a big difference.
So, what does a doula actually do? Let’s break it down.
🤰 A Doula Supports You Through Pregnancy
From the moment we start working together, your doula is there to walk alongside you—not ahead, not behind, but with you.
We help you:
Understand your options in pregnancy and birth
Navigate the maternity system (especially the NHS, if you’re new to it)
Prepare emotionally, mentally, and physically for birth
Build confidence in your body and your instincts
Talk through fears or previous birth trauma
Create a personalised birth plan that reflects your values
Whether you’re planning a home birth, hospital birth, or something in between, we’re here to hold space, offer knowledge, and cheer you on.
👶 A Doula Supports You During Labour and Birth
This is often where people really see the magic of doula support. During labour, we’re a calm, reassuring, continuous presence—someone you know and trust.
We support you by:
Helping you feel safe and grounded, however birth unfolds
Offering comfort techniques like massage, breathing, positions, and counter-pressure
Protecting your birth space (think soft lights, quiet voices, no interruptions)
Helping your partner feel confident and involved
Translating medical information so you can make informed choices in the moment
Advocating with you—not speaking for you, but helping your voice be heard
And the best part? Doulas provide continuous support, which means we don’t swap shifts or leave you alone during labour unless you want us to. That kind of steady, familiar presence can be deeply reassuring.
🌱 A Doula Supports You After Baby is Born
The early days of parenthood can be a whirlwind of emotions, nappies, sleepless nights, and new beginnings. Your doula is there to gently support the transition.
We can help you with:
Processing your birth experience
Infant feeding (breastfeeding, bottle, or combo)
Babywearing, sleep, and soothing tips
Signposting to trusted local resources
Holding space for you, emotionally and practically
Some doulas also offer postnatal doula support—coming to your home in the days or weeks after birth to cook a meal, watch baby while you nap or shower, or simply be a calm, listening ear.
💛 So… Why Hire a Doula?
Because birth is a huge life event, and you deserve to feel supported, informed, and cared for—not just medically, but emotionally and holistically.
Studies show that having a doula can:
Reduce the likelihood of interventions (like forceps or caesarean)
Shorten labour
Improve birth satisfaction
Increase breastfeeding success
Help parents feel more confident and less anxious
But beyond the stats, the value of a doula is often in the feeling:
“She was the one person who really listened.”
“She helped me believe I could do it.”
“She made us feel like we had a friend in the room.”
🫶 Doulas Don’t Replace Anyone—We Add To Your Team
We’re not there instead of your partner, your midwife, or your best friend—we’re there to work alongside them. We help everyone feel more supported so you can focus on what matters most: meeting your baby.
Want to know more about how a doula could support your birth or postpartum experience?
Let’s chat! We offer free initial consultations and would love to hear your story, your hopes, and your questions. You’re not meant to do this alone—and with a doula, you won’t have to. 💛