What is a Doula? Let's Chat About it!

Jenna Speir
Jan 20
3 min read

Updated: Aug 4

Imagine this: You’re at home, labouring away, and things are starting to feel intense. You get in the tub, thinking it’ll help (and it does…kind of), but then you feel that unmistakable urge to push. It’s just you and your partner. Your partner calls your doula first, because, let’s be honest, they’re panicking just a little. Your doula stays on the phone the entire time, likely breaking a few speed limits to get to you.

By the time she arrives, you’re on the couch, surrounded by EMTs, and about to meet your baby. You open your eyes and see her. Relief washes over you because in that moment, her presence is everything you needed. That’s a doula.

A doula is your calm in the chaos. Your steady hand. Your voice of reason when things get loud (inside or outside your head). Doulas are trained professionals who support you emotionally, physically, and informationally (yes, I made that a word). We’re here to hold space for YOU—your preferences, your needs, and your birth experience.

But Wait, Is a Doula Like a Midwife?

Nope! Think of your doula as your ultimate birth hype woman. I don’t deliver babies or handle medical care—that’s what your midwife or doctor does. Instead, I’m your coach, your cheerleader, and sometimes even your snack-runner.

I’ll help you feel prepared, stay focused, and make decisions that align with what YOU want. And, let’s not forget, I’m also there for your partner.

Speaking of Partners...

You know that meme about the deer in headlights? That’s sometimes the vibe when partners realize labour is no joke. But here’s the thing: it’s their birth experience too! A present, supportive partner can be like a mega oxytocin pump for a labouring mom. (Oxytocin = the love hormone that helps labor progress. Science is cool, right?)

Whether they want to be hands-on or prefer a quieter role, I meet them wherever they are. I make sure they feel confident and involved without the pressure of being your sole support person.

Why Doulas Are Game-Changes

I know you’re a stats person, so let me drop a little knowledge: Studies show having a doula can reduce the chances of a cesarean by up to 39%. (No pressure on your choices, though—every birth is different!) Doulas can also shorten labour and make you less likely to need pain medication.

And it’s not just about outcomes—it’s about how you feel during the process. Birth is raw and unpredictable, but with the right support, it can also be empowering and beautiful.

Another Story for You

Picture this: You’re at your midwife appointment, and they’re pushing you to schedule a cesarean because you had one before. It feels like no one is really listening to you, and deep down, you know you don’t want to book that surgery.

You call your doula (that’s me!) and tell her what’s going on. Together, we come up with a game plan: questions to ask, conversations to have, and how to advocate for yourself without feeling like you’re rocking the boat too hard. Fast forward a few weeks: You go into labour on your own and deliver your baby vaginally—on the very day that C-section was supposed to happen.

That’s the power of having someone in your corner.

Let's Wrap it Up

So, what is a doula? A doula is your guide, your sounding board, and your biggest supporter. We’re here to hold space for your story—no matter what that looks like.

If you’re curious about what having a doula on your team could look like for you, let’s connect! Whether you’re prepping for a hospital birth, home birth, or something in between, I’d love to be there for you.