DOULAS Know
Chvana Robertson • February 18, 2025
a few things Doulas know
- A safe space with open communication and intent listening creates a trusting relationship with the birthing person.
- Emotional support is crucial in not just the birth space. Words of encouragement in the latter days of pregnancy, active listening during a postpartum visit - go a long way to bring comfort.
- Filling the gap is essential - be the village! Sometimes that’s loading the dishwasher, or folding a load of laundry, offering up resources for extra support, going to provider appointments, creating a birth plan.
- Education is KEY!!! From every aspect of pregnancy to postpartum, there is no topic that cannot be educated about.
- When something isn’t right. Mental health is just as important as nutrition.
- They DO NOT replace your partner!
- They support all types of births - not just home births. They can even go with you & your partner to your schedule cesarean birth at some hospitals.
- They DO NOT deliver babies - we love a good partnership with a midwife or OB!
- Shared information regarding birth options is helpful as you discuss this with your various providers.
- Fluids & body sensations are normal during labor!
- Options are always available to you as the birthing person.
- Mediating conversations with your care team is often necessary to reduce stress - open communication benefits EVERYONE!
- Comfort techniques during labor bring peace.
- Support to your partner is just as critical as support to you as the birthing person.
- That GOALS are important but also know that coping is key if those GOALS change.
- Fewer interventions are needed when there is a partnership between them & a birthing person.
The short answer? the earlier the better.
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When baby needed unexpected NICU care, thoughtful birth planning helped this family know exactly what to do—Dad went with baby, Mom had her doula by her side, and no one had to navigate the unexpected alone.
Learn how UnitedHealthcare's expanded birth doula coverage may help eligible families access pregnancy, labor, and postpartum support through The DoulaFOURce.
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