PILATES DOULA FAQS
Answering Your Questions
WHO SHOULD HIRE A DOULA?
EVERY new or expecting parent! Whether through birth, adoption, or surrogacy, you can benefit from having a non-judgmental person who is looking after you and your wellness during labor and the first few weeks with your new baby!
WHEN DO I NEED A BIRTH OR POSTPARTUM DOULA?
Typically doulas are hired in your 4th or 5th month of pregnancy. Birth doulas can help with anytime of births and postpartum doulas offer support from the day the baby is born until about 6 weeks postpartum.
WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A BIRTH AND A POSTPARTUM DOULA?
Birth doulas support you and your partner during labor while the postpartum doula supports you and your partner (and maybe other children!) once you give birth up until 6 weeks postpartum. Birth doulas focus on giving you your best birthing experience. Postpartum doulas help transition new parents by providing information, guidance, and help.
CAN YOU HELP WITH A SURGICAL BIRTH OR A VAGINAL BIRTH?
Doulas can help in any type of birth- medicated or not, medical or vaginal! The birthing person and birth partner will always benefit from having the trained, nurturing, and non-judgmental support a doula brings.
DOES A DOULA REPLACE NURSING STAFF OR A NANNY?
Absolutely not! The doula is part of your team. During labor, the doula will work with your medical staff. After labor, the doula provides different support than a nanny does. Doulas do not take over care of the baby but rather support the new parents.
HOW SHOULD YOU SELECT A DOULA?
It is important to interview several doulas in order to find the best fit for you. Things to take into consideration are: training, certification status, experience, availability, services offered, conversational compatibility, fees, and general instincts about having the doula in your home or private space. Click here for more information and questions to ask in hiring a doula.
WHAT IF I DO NOT DO PILATES OR HAVE ANY INTEREST IN DOING IT?
No problem! Whether you have interest in doing Pilates or not, the Pilates Doula can help. My background in Pilates makes me more in sync with your body and how I can provide comfort measures for you. While doing Pilates before and after pregnancy can be beneficial, it does not mean it is for everyone!
I ALREADY HAVE SUPPORT FOR DURING/AFTER MY BIRTH, DO I STILL NEED A DOULA?
Yes! Everyone can benefit from a doula. Whether you have a ton of support from family and friends or you are going in this alone, doulas are proven to make the birth experience more positive and the transition into parenthood easier. Doulas offer support to your birth partners and family members as well to make sure everyone has a good experience.