A recent study says there's a "strong genetic connection" between period pain and depression
A birth doula is also called a birth companion, nonclinical birth worker, birthing coach, or post-birth supporter.
Midwives are trained healthcare providers who can oversee low-risk pregnancies, labor, and birth. They can also help support you during labor and in the postpartum period.
An end-of-life doula, or a death doula, helps you and your loved ones before, during, and after death by providing emotional and physical support, education about the dying process, and guidance while grieving.
According to research, birth doulas help reduce the rate of C-sections, and as they provide advocacy, some believe they're worth every penny.
As doulas aren't clinical professionals, they can't give medical advice, but they can offer physical and emotional support during labor. They can help you with breathing techniques, positional changes, and relaxation strategies.
Full spectrum doulas provide support for all reproductive experiences, including abortion, miscarriage, adoption, and LGBTQ+ family planning.
As doulas aren't usually members of hospital staff, you may have to find them on your own. Ask your doctor, or friends, or search the internet for recommendations.
Pregnant people who are Black or Black Mixed Heritage are more likely to experience complications during pregnancy and childbirth, largely due to healthcare providers not taking concerns seriously. A doula could help in reducing that risk and communicate your concerns.
Depending on your location and circumstances, you could be eligible to access free doula support during your pregnancy.
A doula can advocate for you during labor and birth, which may be helpful if you are vulnerable, anxious, or have cultural or religious needs.
The cost of doulas can vary widely. Some may charge per hour or for a set support package. In the US, most insurance plans don't cover the costs of having a doula, and prices can range from US$200 to US$5,000.
Some people want someone around who they know and trust during labor. A doula can be your only birth partner or form part of your birth team.
A postpartum doula can talk through any concerns or worries you may have as a new parent.
Research suggests that people who have continuous support in labor and birth are less likely to have an assisted birth, a cesarean section, and pain relief.
A doula will provide one-to-one support during labor and reassure you throughout.
Doulas will support you no matter how you plan to give birth, whether it's a home birth or a planned cesarean birth.
A doula will meet you when you are pregnant and spend time getting to know you and your partner.
Postpartum doulas can help with breastfeeding education and assist with bottle feeding.
A doula will discuss any questions or concerns during your pregnancy and help you with your birth plan.
A doula is a trained professional who helps parents in the run-up to the birth, during labor, and after it, based on what is required. Doulas can also help with postnatal support once parents return home with their baby.
After delivery, a doula can support the other parent, teach siblings how to help out, and provide emotional support to you and your family.
Doulas provide practical and emotional support throughout pregnancy, labor, and birth.
Kelly Rowland used doula-to-the-stars Lori Bregman for her son's birth.
A doula was present during the birth of Jessica Biel's son, Silas.
Sources: (WebMD) (Tommys) (Mom)
See also: Things you cannot do while pregnant
The idea of having a companion providing support to the birthing process dates back to prehistoric times. However, the contemporary use of a doula emerged during the natural birth movement in the United States in the 1960s.
Nicole Kidman used a doula for the birth of her baby, Sunday Rose. She said the doula helped everything go smoothly.
As doulas usually get to know the soon-to-be parent during pregnancy, the continuity of care may mean a lot as you may not see the same doctor or midwife during antenatal appointments.
Latham Thomas, founder of doula and maternity lifestyle brand Mama Glow, was the doula for Alicia Keys.
Labor is a challenging and stressful experience, so having a labor expert by your side can make the experience less overwhelming and more manageable. Enter the doula—a trained professional who provides continuous physical, emotional, and informational support to their client before, during, and even after childbirth. However, they aren't medical professionals, so they can't perform medical procedures or prescribe medication.
Whether you're trying for a baby, are currently pregnant, or are just curious, this gallery contains all you need to know about doulas and if they're worth the money. Click to find out more.
What is a doula, and do you really need one?
Do the benefits justify the costs?
HEALTH New parents
Labor is a challenging and stressful experience, so having a labor expert by your side can make the experience less overwhelming and more manageable. Enter the doula—a trained professional who provides continuous physical, emotional, and informational support to their client before, during, and even after childbirth. However, they aren't medical professionals, so they can't perform medical procedures or prescribe medication.
Whether you're trying for a baby, are currently pregnant, or are just curious, this gallery contains all you need to know about doulas and if they're worth the money. Click to find out more.