Everything You Need to Know About Doulas

What is a doula?

A doula is typically someone who aides an expecting mother throughout her journey of pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum. They help you plan for the baby's arrival. They accompany you to the hospital or birthing center during labor. Once the baby is born, they also provide post-natal visits, where they assist with breastfeeding, do light housework chores, run errands, and even babysit. I, honestly, looked at my doula as my birth coach, because she was there for me during a very crucial time of me and my unborn son's life. Carrying another human being and birthing that creation into the world is a very important task, and doulas are here to offer as much spiritual, emotional, and physical support as possible during that process.

How much does it cost?

Doula prices range anywhere from $600 to $1300 for their services, however, depending on your situation, some doulas may be willing to offer payment plans. In my case, my doula was very understanding of my economic situation. I was a college student with student loans and no steady income, so I ended up receiving a discounted price for my doula's services. Definitely don't be afraid to reach out and ask for assistance. You never know what might come of it.

Is it worth it?

The short answer is Yes! Let's face it, pregnancy is no walk in the park, and if you find yourself dealing with an unplanned pregnancy a thousand miles away from home, like myself, then, yes, having a doula is worth it. I had so many fears as a first time mom, and I needed more than just my immediate family members and close friends to support me during my pregnancy. Doulas coach mothers through each stage of pregnancy. In my case my doula also exposed me to a variety of resources. Some  of which include, pre-natal yoga classes, helpful new parenting books, and herbs/essential oils that help with the healing process after labor. Overall, childbirth and pregnancy are some of the most important moments in one’s life, and you’ll appreciate having a doula there to help you during those precious moments.

My experience

Having a doula was one of the best decisions I made for myself and my baby. The process began with a simple phone consultation where we discussed pricing and all of the services that she provides. After that consultation, we met maybe twice in person, prior to my labor. During those meetings, she taught a birthing class, helped with the development of my birth plan, and explained all of my options for how to have a natural non-medicated birth. She was also available via phone to talk with me through some difficult moments. For instance, whenever I had a daunting doctor appointment, and the doctors stressed me out with an overload of information about any and everything that could possibly go wrong during my labor, my doula was there to counter that stress with encouragement and words of affirmation. I had a lot of doubts as a first time mom. I had no money and very little support from my partner, so having those personal conversations with my doula about all of my fears and concerns about pregnancy and labor was very therapeutic. It, ultimately, allowed  me the freedom to release all the worry, stress, and inhibitions blocking me from experiencing the joys of having a baby. We created a level of trust, which was necessary when I needed to depend on her during my labor. I felt her positive energy and her reassurance when I first went into labor, and I appreciated her presence in the hospital after my delivery. She was a great resource, and words can't describe how grateful I am to have had a holistic doula like Djifa to help guide and coach me through the process.

Recommendations

If you are like myself and want additional support to help you through pregnancy, labor, and/or postpartum, please consider any one of these lovely doulas from the National Black Doulas Association website. I personally recommend Djifa Jones, an Atlanta based doula. I chose her, because I understood the importance of having a black woman who would advocate for me in the hospital and prioritize me and my baby's health. Often times, black women's reproductive health is not a high priority within society, and I did not want my birth experience to be tainted by the prejudices of our healthcare system. Djifa is a holistically trained doula and a licensed pediatric physician's assistant who will go above and beyond the call of duty to ensure that you and your little bundle of joy receive the best care possible. Check out her website for more information and services. https://www.awombansplace.com/home

With Love,

A Proud Mama