Do You Need a Doula at Your Birth? How Birthworkers Support Families in Many Ways
Preparing for birth is an exciting and sometimes overwhelming journey. You might have heard about doulas and wondered: Do I really need one at my birth? What if I don’t want someone physically present but still want support or resources?
The truth is, doulas and birthworkers are here to support your unique needs — whether that means being in the delivery room with you or providing education, guidance, and resources outside of labor. Your birth experience is personal, and the way you receive support can be just as unique.
What Is a Doula and Why Do Families Choose One?
A doula is a trained professional who offers continuous emotional, physical, and informational support throughout pregnancy, labor, and postpartum. Unlike medical staff who focus on clinical care, doulas concentrate on your comfort and empowerment.
Benefits of Having a Doula Present at Birth
Continuous emotional encouragement and reassurance
Physical comfort techniques such as massage, positioning, and breathing guidance
Help understanding medical options and communicating your wishes
Advocacy and companionship throughout labor
Postpartum support for newborn care and emotional well-being
Studies show that having a doula can lead to shorter labors, fewer interventions, and increased satisfaction with the birth experience.
But Do You Have to Have a Doula?
Not at all! Having a doula present is a personal choice. Some families feel confident with their partner, family, or medical staff and prefer a quieter birth space. Others may face hospital visitor restrictions or live far from doulas.
How Birthworkers Can Support You Without Being Present at Birth
Even if you decide not to have a doula physically with you, birthworkers can help in many other valuable ways. We work to meet your family’s needs — whether with hands-on support or educational and emotional resources.
Here are some ways we can support you outside the delivery room:
Childbirth education classes: Learn what to expect and how to prepare for birth with group or private classes tailored to your goals.
Personalized birth planning: Create clear, thoughtful birth plans that help communicate your preferences to care providers.
Prenatal and postpartum guides: Access checklists, tips, and information on preparing your body and mind for birth, as well as caring for yourself and your baby afterward.
Lactation counseling: Receive expert help with breastfeeding challenges, latch techniques, and encouragement through this important transition.
Virtual labor support: Get coaching and emotional support through phone or video if you want guidance but no one physically present.
Postpartum emotional support: We offer check-ins and counseling to help you navigate the emotional changes after birth.
Parenting and newborn care workshops: Classes on infant sleep, soothing, diapering, and early parenting skills.
Birth supplies recommendations: Guidance on comfort tools, labor essentials, and postpartum care items.
Referral network: Connections to trusted midwives, lactation consultants, therapists, and pediatricians.
More Than Labor Support: Additional Services Many Doulas Offer
Many doulas also provide other services to support families throughout pregnancy and beyond:
Childbirth Education Classes: These classes build your knowledge and confidence, covering labor stages, pain management, medical options, and postpartum care.
Lactation Counseling: Helping you succeed with breastfeeding by addressing common challenges and providing ongoing support.
Prenatal and Postpartum Visits: Personalized visits to prepare you physically and emotionally before birth, and practical help adjusting to life with your new baby after birth.
Your Birth, Your Choice — Support on Your Terms
Birthworkers are here to serve your family’s needs in whatever way works best for you. Whether you want continuous physical support at birth, virtual guidance, classes, or resource materials, we’re committed to helping you feel empowered and cared for every step of your journey.
If you want to learn more about how we can support you — whether in person or remotely — please reach out! We offer flexible services tailored to your unique needs.
