What Does a Doula Actually Do?
When people ask me what I do as a doula, it’s not always a simple answer, because every client, every birth, every experience is different. But at its heart, being a doula means walking alongside someone through one of the most transformational moments of their life. Holding space (— a term that has sort of been ruined by that Wicked press tour moment! 🫠) But essentially, offering grounded, loving presence and supporting you in whatever way you need and reminding you that you already hold the wisdom within. Like hiring a best friend who knows a lot about birth!
Unlike a midwife, a doula isn’t a medical professional.
We don’t do clinical checks or tell you what you should be doing/not doing (not that anyone other than yourself should be making any decisions for you — more on that later!)
We’re here for something else entirely — emotional, physical, spiritual and informational support before, during and after birth.
So… what does that actually look like?
Emotional Support: Your Anchor Through the Waves
Pregnancy and birth can stir up all kinds of feelings: joy, excitement, anxiety, fear, uncertainty.
A doula helps you ride those waves without feeling overwhelmed or alone.
We’re someone you can cry to, laugh with, rant to, or just be with.
We offer a calm presence when things feel intense, and hold the space for you to feel it all — safely and without judgment.
Physical Support: Hands-On Care During Labour
In labour, doulas are often the quiet, steady presence in the room — offering massage, counter-pressure, position changes, breathing techniques and more.
We help you tune into your body and find your rhythm.
We might dim the lights, help set up a cosy birth space, offer cool flannels, squeeze your hips through a contraction, or just sit beside you, holding your hand.
We’re there to bring comfort, reassurance and continuity — especially in a busy hospital environment where staff may change.
Informational Support: Helping You Feel Informed + Empowered
Whether you’re planning a home birth, hospital birth, elective caesarean, or something in between — a doula helps you understand your options and feel confident in your choices.
We don’t give medical advice, but we do:
Explain common procedures or birth terms in plain English
Help you write your birth preferences
Support you to advocate for what matters most to you
Offer evidence-based resources to help you make informed decisions
We hold your vision for birth and support you to feel clear and confident — even when plans change.
Continuity of Care: Someone Just for You
One of the biggest benefits of having a doula is continuity.
In a maternity system where you are dealing with different professionals at each appointment and where the midwives you see antenatally are not the ones present at the birth (with the potential exception of home birth — more on that later too!), having someone consistent who knows your story and walks with you through the whole process can make a huge difference.
Your doula is just for you. Not juggling other patients, not rushing to write notes, not changing shifts.
We’re there to support your nervous system, protect your bubble, and make sure you feel seen.
So, Why Might Someone Hire a Doula?
Every person’s reasons are different, but many people tell me they want:
🌿 A calming, steady presence in the room
🌿 Someone to hold space for their emotions
🌿 Tools and techniques to ease labour
🌿 Reassurance for their partner
🌿 Confidence to speak up and make decisions
🌿 Continuity and connection
🌿 To feel less afraid, and more held
And evidence backs this up:
Studies show that people who birth with a doula are more likely to have shorter labours, fewer interventions, and more positive birth experiences.
Is a Doula Right for Me?
You don’t need to be having a home birth or a “natural” birth to work with a doula.
You don’t have to want essential oils or affirmations.
You don’t even have to know exactly what kind of birth you want.
You just have to want support — steady, wholehearted support — from someone who believes in you and your ability to birth.
Want to Know More?
You can explore my Birth Doula Support page to read more about what I offer and how we could work together. I’m based in Aldbourne, Wiltshire, and offer doula services across Wiltshire, Somerset, Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, West Berkshire and Hampshire.
If you’d like to connect and see if I might be the right doula for you, I’d love to hear from you. You can get in touch here.
