Photo by Chanda Williams
Who we are
Though the term “doula” is often used interchangeably with “midwife”–these are two different types of providers with very distinct roles.
Doulas have traditionally been women who assist other women during labor as well as during the postpartum period. In a traditional sense, doulas have been our sisters, aunts, mothers, and closest friends who were deeply supportive and experienced with the process of bringing forth life. Unlike midwives, they are not clinically trained and therefore do not perform clinical tasks that would include doing pelvic exams, assessing vitals, or “delivering” the baby. Doulas, however, continue to be an invaluable part of the birth team as they bring their knowledge and compassion for the birthing process to provide the moral support needed to get through the intensity of childbirth.
The Doula Circle is the only community network of doulas affiliated with a midwifery practice, and as such comprises a circle of birth workers deeply committed to providing the highest quality care to Philadelphia families. Our network is united by the shared values of integrity, compassion, reproductive justice, and professionalism.
What we do
As we get closer to your due date, we step in to offer support and guidance. We will meet with you at least 2 times, prenatally, so that we can become acquainted before your actual labor and delivery. We will use our time together to explore your priorities and concerns and how we can best work together to meet your birth plans. We will also provide a welcome packet upon establishing care that you may use along the way!
Doulas vs Midwives
A doula and a midwife offer different types of services, even though both may support the childbirth experience. Midwives have medical training and during the birth process, focus on delivering a healthy baby. Doulas, on the other hand, focus on the needs of the mother, offering mental, physical, and emotional support.
Below are a few things your Doula will not do:
- Make medical decisions on your behalf. Your provider wants to hear from you.
- We also do not take over your partner’s role or anyone else you may choose to be in the room during the time of delivery.
- We cannot make any medical judgements or clinical recommendations.
- We do not perform clinical tasks, such as blood pressure checks, fetal assessments, vaginal exams, etc.
Connect with us
As you progress towards labor and delivery, you can text, call, and ask any questions to your assigned doula.
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