By Christine Goldman Redmond
As a young girl, I was always fascinated with the miracle of birth.
I have had the honor of life taking me on a path to support and nurture expectant moms and their families. I have been a doula mentor, birth doula, postpartum doula and advocate for maternal health since 2000. So, let’s just get down to the questions many moms ask when they hear the phrase, “You should hire a doula!”
What is a doula?
Doula means servant; servant for the mother of the home. This role has evolved from a sisterhood of support with benefits becoming increasingly evident, to many training modules and programs that have been specifically developed over the years. It clearly has become an inspiring career choice for many women.
What does a doula do?
A doula is a trained professional who provides emotional, physical and informational support to a person before, during and shortly after childbirth. We work alongside the mom’s care team to guide, encourage and support the mom through pregnancy, labor, birth and the postpartum period. A doula’s presence can significantly improve the birthing experience.
Here is a breakdown of what doulas do and the benefits we offer:
What a Birth Doula Does
Before Birth:
• Build a trusting relationship with the mother.
• Offers resources
• Helps create a birth plan — with “what ifs” including a newborn care plan in case baby doesn’t follow your plan.
• Provides information on birth and parenting topics — ever heard of a perineal massage? We can tell you all about its benefits!
• Offers emotional support and answers questions via phone or in person.
• May offer childbirth, breastfeeding and newborn care classes.
During Labor:
• Stays with the mother continuously.
• Offers comfort measures like:
– Breathing and relaxation techniques
– Massage
– Position changes
– Hydrotherapy
– Aromatherapy
– Other modalities such as hypnobirthing, guided affirmation, if mom requests
• Encourages and supports the partner’s involvement.
• Empower Mom to advocate for her wishes and birth preferences.
• Works alongside the care team
After Birth:
• Assists with initial breastfeeding.
• Supports bonding between the baby and family members.
• Postpartum support
Benefits of Having a Birth Doula
According to research (like the Cochrane Review and studies by Klaus & Kennell), having a doula can lead to:
• 50% reduction in cesarean births
• 25% shorter labor
• 40% less use of oxytocin
• 60% fewer requests for epidurals
• Fewer interventions
• More positive birth experiences
• More positive breastfeeding experiences
Doulas also help stimulate natural oxytocin through touch and massage, which enhances well-being and pain tolerance.
Partner’s Role?
Doulas do not replace partners — they support both the birthing person and their partner. This allows the partner to:
• Be emotionally present without pressure to remember everything from childbirth classes.
• Take breaks when needed.
• Participate in a way that feels comfortable.
Are Doulas Only for Unmedicated Births?
Not at all. Doulas support:
• Medicated births, Cesarean births and unexpected situation
Other Types of Obstetric Doulas
• Antepartum Doulas: Support during high-risk pregnancies or bed rest.
• Postpartum Doulas: Help with newborn care, breastfeeding, household tasks, and emotional support in the early weeks after birth.
Some doulas are trained in multiple areas and can provide comprehensive support across the perinatal period.
Currently, the effect of doula support is being documented by DONA International Data Project and recognized as one of the key components in a positive delivery outcome, reducing Cesarean and premature deliveries.
In recent years, many states have also started to recognize the potential value of doulas for the vulnerable populations served by their state Medicaid benefits. This is a huge step in maternal health care as we now see Medicaid taking a step to cover doula services. As a result, all New Yorkers utilizing Medicaid benefits are now eligible to receive doula services at no cost during pregnancy and up to 12 months after.
Over the past 25 years, I have witnessed the incredible growth of the doula profession in Central New York — from just one or two community doulas to a vibrant network of compassionate, dedicated individuals. It has been a true privilege to train, mentor and collaborate with our community to offer this invaluable support.
I encourage every woman to consider doula care as they plan their pregnancy, prepare for birth or navigate the postpartum period. A doula serves the mother with care, guidance and empowerment, helping her embrace one of life’s most transformative journeys.