Hey mama,

If you’re scratching your head wondering, “What on earth is a doula?”—you’re in the right place. Imagine having a coach who’s like the ultimate birth buddy, someone who's got your back on everything from baby bumps to birth balls. That’s a doula for you!

A doula, as our expert Lisa Byerly puts it, is like a guide or coach for all things pregnancy and birth-related. While they're not handing out medical advice or taking your blood pressure, they are there to support you through the education, emotional, and physical changes during your pregnancy, birth, and the initial postpartum period.

Why You Need a Doula in Your Corner

Think of a doula as part of your birth team. Would you run a marathon without a team? Probably not—and giving birth should be no different. "My biggest goal as a Doula is to help you feel prepared, confident, and empowered going into your birth," says Lisa. From helping you draft your ideal birth plan to assembling your support squad—including doctors, midwives, and therapists—a doula is there to make the journey smoother and less overwhelming.

What Does a Doula Do?

During the first meeting, a doula like Lisa might ask about your ideal birth, how you're feeling, or if you’ve figured out if you want that epidural or are going all-natural. They’re like the planner of your pregnancy party, figuring out who's bringing the ice (a.k.a. the cold compresses) and who's in charge of tunes (hello, soothing labor playlist!).

As your due date approaches, your doula will keep in touch, easing any last-minute jitters and preparing you and your partner with techniques like counter-pressure to make the main event as smooth as possible. When D-Day (or B-Day for birth!) arrives, they'll be right there with you, whether you start laboring at home or head straight to the hospital.

The Postpartum Check-In

After your star performer (your baby, of course!) arrives, a doula sticks around to help with initial breastfeeding and any questions you have as you navigate those first few cuddly but chaotic hours. They typically swing by a week or so later to see how you’re adjusting and offer a debrief on the birth—kind of like a sports coach reviewing game tape, but with less yelling and more cooing.

The Real MVP Stats

Research shows that having a doula can lead to a 39% decrease in the risk of a cesarean, a 15% increase in the likelihood of a spontaneous vaginal birth, and notably shorter labors. Plus, those supported by a doula report a 31% decrease in dissatisfaction with their birth experience.

So, if you're expecting and want someone who knows the ropes (and when to tell you to breathe or push!), a doula might just be your MVP.

Here for you,

Remember, every birth is unique, and so is every doula’s approach. Connecting early in your pregnancy can help build a trust-filled, supportive relationship that makes all the difference when your big day arrives. Make it a day to remember—for all the right reasons!

Follow Lisa on IG: @labyerly65
Visit her website: Goldenlotusdoulaservices.com