LDS Doula Services - Serving Pregnant Mommies-To-Be in Baltimore, Carroll, Harford, Howard, Frederick Counties in Maryland since 2003

Myth: If I have a Doula, can I still have drugs like an epidural?

Truth: A Doula is there to support you to have a safe and satisfying birth - as you define it, be that with or without pain medication.

Myth: Doulas aren't necessary because the nurse, (partner, family member) is there.

Truth: Nurses work 12 hour shifts or less. A doula stays with you through the ENTIRE birth, not until the end of the shift. A Doula does not perform clinical skills and can offer the uninterrupted support that nurses are not always able to provide. A Doula is not emotionally involved with you, as are your other family members or close friends. The Doula knows what to expect and doesn't panic if she sees you in pain.

Myth: Doulas have negative opinions of hospitals.

Truth: A Doula has the utmost respect for the lifesaving technology available for unexpected circumstances in a hospital.

Myth: A Doula will leave if I want to get an epidural.

Truth: A Doula is there to support you in any decision you make. You would still need continuous support, even with an epidural. The Doula can give the dad/partner a break to go get something to eat or to take a nap if it's been a particularly long labor. A Doula can take pictures, get ice-chips, do hand massage or just sit quietly while the woman rests. A Doula stays with the mother until the baby is born, which frees up Dad to go with the baby.

Myth: A Doula carries a strange variety of items in her "Bag Of Tricks."

Truth: Yes, there are strange items in a Doula’s “Bag of Tricks”, however, a Doula like a magician never reveals her secrets!

5 Myths About Doulas