If you’ve done any sort of research into doulas, you may have heard the terms doula and advocate used synonymously. However, I am here today to let you know that a doula does not equal an advocate. In fact, the one major difference between a doula and an advocate is that a doula will encourage you to speak with your own voice while supporting your wishes.
Our doulas will work in collaboration with your providers. We are not there to put up a fight or get in the way of the medical care you receive during your pregnancy and birth. Through our prenatal meetings, we will help you find the confidence to speak with your care providers and advocate for yourself if needed.
You won’t find us speaking on your behalf in the labor & delivery room either. You will find that we encourage YOU to have conversations with your labor & delivery nurses or medical provider. Our clients are smart, strong and capable of communicating effectively with their birth team and don’t need to be “saved” during their birth. Our support in the delivery room will be just as professional as our support throughout the rest of your pregnancy.
We will be your support system and sounding board as you navigate through making choices during your pregnancy, birth and parenting journey. These are your choices, not ours and we will respect and support each and every choice you make along the way.