Frequently Asked Questions

How long would I need a doula for?
I offer support during pregnancy to individuals. After the birth, a doula usually supports the mother in the first few weeks, for a couple of hours each day.
The help she gives varies from client to client – from gaining confidence in bathing the baby, to providing a listening ear for the mother who may want to discuss her experience of giving birth. Doula Mamma is a growing service, adapting to the needs of the local community.

Where do Fathers fit in?
Doulas are there to support the father as well as the mother. The doula is not there to take over the father’s role, but to give him confidence, enabling him to support his partner.

Hospital or home?
I will support the mother wherever she decides to give birth (or wherever she may end up!) I recognise the importance of a postive birth memory and strive to make the woman feel good about her labour and birth experience, wherever it takes place.

Is a doula a midwife?
No! A doula does not perform any clinical or medical procedures. A doula is there to support you through your labour and birth and to help you know and understand your birth choices.

Do you come to my home when I'm in labour?
This would be entirely up to you. Most women prefer their doula to meet them at their home and stay with them whilst they labour until it is time to go to the hospital. They often find comfort in having the doula travel to hospital with them.

Who needs a postnatal doula?
Or better yet; who deserves a postnatal doula? You and every woman who has just given birth deserves to be cared for. You deserve time to spend exclusively with your new child, and time to rest and recuperate, without household chores on your mind. A sympathetic ear from a caring professional is also helpful.

When should I begin to look for a postnatal doula?
Between the 4th and 6th month is an ideal time to interview with your prospective doula. This allows you to focus on your birth, feeling secure in the knowledge that you have help in place for the first few weeks, after your baby is born. Any time right up to your ninth month is a fine time to call, please remember a postnatal doula's schedule can fill up months in advance.

What if my baby is already here and I have discovered I need help?
Call and I will do my best to provide you with this specialised care.

What is the difference between a postnatal doula, a nanny, and a maternity nurse?
A nanny normally cares for babies, and children exclusively. A maternity nurse will also care exclusively for the baby. A postnatal doula is a nonmedical professional. A postnatal doula specialises in the care of you, the mother, the household and siblings; offering help with the baby when needed. She is there to empower you to be the mother that you want to be.

I already have children, and am confident in my baby skills, how can a postnatal doula help me?
Siblings need extra attention while you get to know your new child. Your doula will put together simple meals and perform light chores, such as, empty the dishwasher and fill your freezer for starters. They will also help you sort out the challenges a new family member can bring.

This is my first baby and I would like help with baby care.
Postnatal doulas love newborn babies and it is our pleasure to offer guidance with everything from breastfeeding, to bath time, nappy changing and swaddling. They are also well educated in the current baby care techniques and child related topics. Your doula will be happy to care for your baby while you nap or shower.

This is such a private time for my family, how can I be sure I will feel comfortable with a doula?
Interview any doulas you are interested in, then call their past clients for references. Postnatal doulas work in many different homes in the course of a year. It becomes second nature to 'fit in' with many different styles of families.