A Birth Doula is a trained professional who provides emotional, physical and educational support throughout pregnancy, labor, birth, and the immediate postpartum period. The Doula's purpose is to help families have a safe, memorable, and positive birthing experience.
Birth Doula FAQs
What are the benefits of hiring a Birth Doula?
Studies have shown that the support given by a Birth Doula decreases the likelihood of synthetic oxytocin being used to speed up the labor by 31%, the use of anesthesia by 10%, and the rate of cesarean section by 25%. Furthermore, Birth Doula support has been linked to higher APGAR scores for the baby and a higher rate of satisfaction reported by the birthing person overall. The Cochrane Database Systematic Review, published in July of 2017, went so far as to say “Continuous support in labor may improve a number of outcomes for both mother and baby, and no adverse outcomes have been identified.”
What support does a Birth Doula offer?
Birth Doulas offer mental, emotional, and physical support before, during, and after childbirth. A Birth Doula (also known as a birth attendant) is trained in “mothering the mother” and is there to provide continuous support for the birthing person and when applicable, also for their partner. Supporting partners to relax, rest as needed, and participate in the labor & delivery to the degree they feel comfortable generally increases a birthing person's overall satisfaction with their partner’s involvement and birthing experience.
“Doulas offer one of the most effective tools to improve labor and delivery outcomes.”
- American Congress of Obstetrics & Gynecologists and the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine
What's the difference between a Birth Doula and a Midwife?
A Midwife is a primary health care provider, while a Birth Doula is a non-medical care provider acting as a childbirth coach. Midwives often replace the role of an OB and deliver babies in various settings.
What if I am giving birth in a Birth Center or at Home?
Birth Doulas provide exceptional labor support in any setting. Their primary focus is to provide continuous support for you. While your OB or Midwife charts, checks on other patients, rests as needed, and prepares for the delivery; your Doula will stay focused on your mental and emotional state as well as your physical comfort the whole way through.
What sets Bloom Baby Birth Doulas apart?
Our Birth Doulas have been thoroughly vetted personally and professionally. Each has participated in a training/certification program with a reputable organization and has demonstrated experience in their field of expertise. In addition, each of our affiliated Doulas are certified in adult and pediatric CPR & AED, maintain professional liability insurance, and have undergone verified background checks.
As we constantly strive to embrace the latest research and holistic care practices, all of our affiliated Doulas are encouraged to participate in educational opportunities, mentorship, and peer support offered through our agency.
How much does it cost to hire a Bloom Baby Birth Doula?
The investment in a Bloom Baby Birth Doula ranges from $600 - $3000. There are no hidden costs or additional fees. The price you pay is based upon the Tier (determined by experience) of the Birth Doula you choose. When you complete an inquiry form you will be given the opportunity to specify your preferences for experience and budget, among other things, so that there no surprises.
What’s included with Bloom Baby Birth Doula services?
All Bloom Baby Birth Doula packages include:
Phone and email support as needed throughout the working relationship
On call availability, 24/7 three weeks before your due date & until you deliver
Up to two 60 minute prenatal visits
Continuous support during labor and delivery
Immediate postpartum care for up to two hours at your place of birth
One 60 minute postpartum visit
Guaranteed back-up, arranged directly by your Birth Doula
How do I pursue hiring a Bloom Baby Birth Doula?
When you are ready to begin your search, simply click the link below to complete an inquiry form and tell us a bit about what you are looking for. Based upon your preferences and needs we will start the matching process and connect you with affiliated Birth Doulas within a few business days. We look forward to connecting with you and helping your family find the perfect fit!
Looking for something else?
Click on a link below to explore additional FAQs and get to know more about us and the process of hiring a Bloom Baby Doula.