What a doula does X What a doula doesn’t do

Published by admin on December 5, 2025December 5, 2025

Even though doulage is a very old occupation, it is still widely unknown by many. Because of that, it’s very common that many questions arise about a doula’s real role. Let’s clarify some doubts:

WHAT A DOULA DOES:

• Offers physical, pedagogical and emotional support to the pregnant woman and her family

  One of the main duties of a doula is to offer all kinds of support to the mother-to-be and those involved in the birth. During pregnancy, doula answer questions and helps the pregnant woman feel secure so that she can go though childbirth feeling confident in herself and her body.

• Helps assemble a birth plan

  The making of a birth plan is extremely important to avoid obstetric violence and medical intervention during labor. The document expresses the parents’ preferences through all stages of the birth according to the mother and child’s health. The doula, in this moment, can present a multitude of birth plans and help the mother-to-be choose and fill out.

• Teaches non-pharmacological methods to relieve birth plan

  An important task of the doula is to help women cope with the pain of childbirth, which can be achieved through non-pharmacological methods, with tools that have scientifically proven benefits, used during labor. Examples of these methods include body massages, breathing exercises and shower baths.

WHAT A DOULA DOESN’T DO:

• Replaces birth professionals

  It’s extremely important to always keep in mind that doulas do not replace the healthcare professionals involved in birth care. Therefore, doulas should not perform any medical or nursing procedures, such as pelvic exams or even listening to the baby’s heartbeat. A birth with only a doula is an unassisted birth!

• Watches over the newborn’s healthcare

  A doula’s role is to prepare the pregnant woman so that this special moment occurs in the best possible way, offering support throughout pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum. But be mindful that all this care relates to the mother-to-be; the baby must be taken care of by a pediatrician.

• Imposes the type of delivery

  Is a doula exclusive to those who want a humanized childbirth? Of course not. The professional will provide the pregnant woman with all the necessary information about all types of delivery, including the benefits and harms, but of course, she will respect and support the woman’s decision. After all, this moment belongs to the pregnant woman.