Doulas - Supporters or Saboteurs?

Ten years ago if you asked a mother-to-be if she was going to have a doula, she'd probably ask if that was some kind of tube destined to be stuck up her whosy-whats-it. But over the last decade, the phrase has become more common (it basically means "someone who provides non-medical and non-midwifery support before, during, and after birth"), largely due to the rise in the number of doulas. According to DONA (Doulas of North America), the official membership organization for doulas in the US, there were 750 doulas in the US and Canada in 1994, but in 2008 there were 6,678. And that's just the ones who've taken the time to get certified through DONA, which is not required to be a doula.

But along with the rise in doulas has come a rise in doubts about doulas. As one doula in NYC, Jennifer Kroll, puts it, "I face skepticism from doctors now and then. One doctor warned against hiring me because 'doulas are interlopers.'" Most OB/GYN's accept doulas, but some feel they can play a contentious role in the snap decisions a successful birth often requires.

Yet, as Jennifer says, "I'm there to support my client's decisions. I don't get in the way. I advise my client on her choices, and let her interact with the OB or midwife." Of course, not all doulas might be as discreet as Jennifer. And hence the doula-as-obstruction stereotype.

If you're choosing a doula, it's important to address this issue with her (or, yes, occasionally him, for there is, after all, a renowned "hairy doula" in Park Slope, Brooklyn). Ask her what her attitude is toward doctors, how she sees herself interacting with the actual deliverer of the baby, and how she sees her role in helping you preserve the sanctity of your birth plan. Also talk to your doctor or midwife. If he/she has a bad attitude about doulas, maybe let him/her know that you've hired a doula who will not get in the way. If this doesn't ease the tension, you might need to consider changing doctors, or not having a doula. At that point, it's a personal judgment call on what's most important to you.

Either way, doulas are meant to be supporters, not saboteurs. And supporters they can be, as long as the parents-to-be make sure the lines of communication are clear and everyone understands their role in the birthing process. As if you didn't have enough to think about already!

Photo via Flickr.