Doula services
Find an OB-GYNHaving the right support during your pregnancy journey can make a meaningful difference. Certified doulas are here to guide you, answer questions and help you feel more at ease. From preparing for labor to supporting you during delivery and beyond, doula services help you feel informed, supported and confident every step of the way.
What is a doula?
Doulas are specially trained to support you during pregnancy, labor and after your baby is born. They don't provide medical care, but they work alongside your maternity care team to offer emotional support, education and practical help. Your doula will advocate for your birthing preferences and focus on your comfort, confidence and overall experience.
What types of services can a doula provide?
Doula services are tailored to your needs and can support you before, during and after delivery.
Prenatal doula support
Before your baby is born, your doula helps you prepare for what’s ahead. Support may include:
- Providing education about pregnancy, labor and recovery
- Helping you create a birth plan
- Preparing you with comfort techniques such as breathing and positioning
Labor and birth doula support
During labor and delivery, your doula provides in-person support to help you feel more at ease. This may include:
- Offering comfort measures such as movement and relaxation techniques
- Serving as your advocate in the delivery room
- Supporting communication between you and your care team
Postpartum doula support
After delivery, your doula continues to support you as you adjust to life with your baby. Support may include:
- Assisting with newborn care and feeding guidance
- Providing follow-up support and check-ins after delivery
How does a doula differ from a midwife or OB-GYN?
A doula’s role is different from a certified nurse midwife (CNMs) or an obstetrician-gynecologist (OB-GYN). While your medical care team focuses on your and your baby’s health, a doula focuses on your comfort and experience. They provide nonmedical support and guidance, while CNMs and OB-GYNs provide clinical care, perform exams and deliver babies.
Benefits of using a doula
Research shows that having a doula can improve your experience and outcomes. Benefits may include:
- Lower rates of cesarean birth
- Higher rates of breastfeeding
- Reduced risk of postpartum depression
- Help preparing for labor and delivery
- Less fear or anxiety around childbirth
- Support and advocacy before, during and after your birth experience
Frequently asked questions about doula services
We offer doula services from Chicago Birthworks Collective to patients at Advocate Trinity Hospital. This is possible through our partnership with March of Dimes Local Collective Impact Initiative.
If you're interested in working with a doula, talk with your provider team during a prenatal visit. We aim to match you with a doula by 28 weeks of pregnancy. This allows time for your doula to be included in three prenatal visits, your delivery, the hospital tour and two postpartum support visits. Exceptions after 28 weeks of pregnancy may be considered on a case-by-case basis.