Reviewed by Debbie Forbes, former registered nurse and founder of Northeast Doulas.
General information, not medical advice. Doulas give non-medical support, so please take medical questions to your doctor or midwife.
General information, not medical advice. Doulas give non-medical support, so please take medical questions to your doctor or midwife.
"Doula" can mean two different roles. Understanding the difference helps you choose the right support.
Labor (birth) doula
A labor doula supports you through pregnancy, labor, and birth — comfort measures, positioning, breathing guidance, and continuous reassurance from active labor through delivery.
Postpartum doula
A postpartum doula supports you at home after birth — newborn care, feeding help, recovery support, and, with overnight care, protecting your sleep during the fourth trimester.
Which do you need?
Some families want birth support only, some want postpartum only, and many want both for continuity from labor through the early weeks. It comes down to your priorities and budget.
Not sure? Our FAQ can help, or contact us and we'll help you decide.
