Hiring a birth doula is one of the most effective ways to ensure you and partner get the birth you want. These women are smart, highly educated and trained around childbirth, and have one agenda only- YOU.

So what exactly do doulas do?

What is a Doula?

Doulas are essentially birthing coaches. They ensure the woman is comfortable while also making sure that her birthing experience reflects the wishes and hopes of the parents. Historically women were always surrounded by other women at the time of birth; midwives, sisters, mothers, and other women who could guide them safely into the unknown. While birthing in the west has become a lot more clinical, studies are showing more and more that women who have doulas in attendance experience less pain, fewer interventions, and leave feel empowered around the outcome of their birth.

When selecting the right doula for you, it’s good to consider different tools that these women bring to their practice.  Some offer massage, breathing, meditation, yoga and knowledge of positions that allow for the most comfortable and rewarding birthing experiences. While no one can guarantee you the birth that you desire, too often women lose control over their birth situation when hasty decisions are being made. A doula is there to help you stick to your plan and explain your options objectively should interventions arise. A doula’s main goal is to stay true to the wishes of the parents.

At Mama Lounge of San Francisco, we do everything possible to make sure our mamas feel empowered and supported going into childbirth. Meet the doulas we love here and be sure to contact us with any questions you may have!