Doula Services

What is a Doula? 

A doula is trained to help you during pregnancy, childbirth and even after your baby is born. A doula is not a doctor or a nurse, but they are experts at making you feel comfortable and cared for. Doulas also help you speak up for what you need when you're in the hospital helping you have a positive pregnancy and birth experience.

What’s the difference between a doula and midwife?

Midwives and doulas both provide care during:

• Pregnancy (the prenatal period)
• Birth (labor and delivery)
• The first few weeks after birth (the early postpartum period)

The difference is that a midwife is a nursing professional certified to provide the full range of medical care, such as pelvic exams. Doulas provide emotional support and education and help manage pain or discomfort. They cannot provide medical care. Some people choose to have both a midwife and a doula as part of their birthing team.

Benefits of Using a Doula

You want the best care for you and your baby.  Black birthing persons, who may be at higher risk for pregnancy conditions and complications, can benefit from the guidance of a doula. Doulas help lower the risk of low birth weight and other complications. Your doula can also help you lessen the chance of experiencing the depression and anxiety you may feel during pregnancy or after you give birth.

Other benefits you receive from working with a doula include:

• Education: You’ll learn helpful information about having a baby, like different childbirth options and comfort techniques. 
• Emotional support: You may have worries or concerns about pregnancy and delivery. You can discuss any issue with your doula, no matter how big or small it seems. Plus, your doula cheers you on and gives you lots of encouragement and support. 
• Confidence to speak up for yourself: Doulas guide you in sharing with your care team what you want throughout the birth experience.
• Pain management: During labor, doulas can provide massages, tips on positioning, breathing and relaxation to help manage pain and discomfort.
• Care after you give birth: You can get breastfeeding support, newborn care and help with daily tasks so you can rest with your baby at home.
• Reduced risk of surgery: Having a doula might make it less likely that you'll need a cesarean section.

How Much Does a Doula Cost?

For those enrolled in these MassHealth plans, doula care is covered by your insurance. There is no cost to you.

• MassHealth Network
• Community Care Cooperative (C3)
• PCC Plan
• Steward Health Choice

If you do not have MassHealth, you may contact your insurance company to see if doula services are covered.