Common Questions

What if I choose pain medication or need intervention?

Doulas are not just beneficial to women who have natural childbirth. While having doula support does decrease the need for pain medication, your Birthways doula supports your choices. She will work with you to eliminate the one thing no woman needs in childbirth - fear! Whether you are afraid of pain or afraid of needles, your doula will lead you to explore your unique needs in childbirth and will be there with you every step of the way as you move towards greater confidence.

Will the doula take away from my role as a father/partner?

Our best referrals come from dads and partners! Doulas are on hand to share their knowledge of the birth process, comfort measures, and the ins-and-outs of the hospital -- freeing you up to be connected and share in this important event.

Doulas can provide you with ideas and strategies for addressing the discomforts of labor. Sometimes you are the one who is most hands-on, providing much needed touch and comfort, or it may be the doula providing massage and counterpressure on your laboring mates’ back and hips while you get to share intimate eye contact and an embrace.

The doula cares for details that would otherwise interrupt the continuous support of women in labor, such as heating up hot compresses, getting ice/water, snacks, bags from the car . . . you’ll find that all hands are needed on what can be a long day. Your doula is a source of reassurance for you when you wonder if all is going normally.

Does insurance cover doula services?

Please contact us to learn more about whether or not your traditional health insurance, health savings account, or flexible spending account will reimburse for your doula care. We're happy to work with you to maximize your coverage opportunities.

What if my doula isn’t available?

Your doula handles commitments thoughtfully. Birthways doulas typically accept between one and four births per month. She will let you know in advance if she has any conflicts that might impact her availability. Regardless, we always have a solid backup plan and because of our group model, the backup doula will be much like your primary in terms of experience level, philosophy and skills.

Will I need a doula if I have a midwife?

A midwifery model of care offers greater preventative care, more time in prenatal visits, a more participatory style of management, and your midwife will be more hands-on than traditional obstetric care. Still, your doula will meet some needs that even the most attentive midwife will not, such as support with early labor at home, continuous care, and a focus on comfort and non-medical needs. Your midwife can share with you ways that she works with doulas to ensure that all your needs are met.