Frequently Asked Questions

What is a doula?

A doula is a trained, non-medical professional who provides emotional, physical and practical support during pregnancy, birth and the postnatal period.

As your doula, my role is to offer a calm, reassuring presence, help you explore your choices and support you in feeling informed, respected and cared for.

I believe every family deserves to feel supported, whatever their birth preferences or circumstances.

What is the difference between a doula and a midwife?

A midwife is a registered healthcare professional responsible for providing clinical maternity care and monitoring the wellbeing of you and your baby.

A doula offers continuous emotional, physical and practical support, complementing the care provided by your midwife and medical team.

I do not perform clinical examinations, make medical decisions or replace your healthcare professionals.

My focus is on you, your experience and helping you feel supported throughout your journey.

Why should I hire a birth doula?

Birth can be one of life's most significant experiences, and having someone by your side who knows your wishes and understands your needs can be incredibly reassuring.

A birth doula can provide:

- Continuous emotional reassurance and encouragement

- Comfort measures, massage and relaxation techniques

- Support with breathing, movement and positioning

- Information to help you make informed decisions

- Support for your birth partner

- A familiar, calming presence during labour and birth

My role is to support your choices, not to influence them.

When should I book a birth doula?

You can contact me at any stage of pregnancy.

Many families choose to book during the second trimester, allowing plenty of time to get to know one another and prepare for birth.

However, if you are further along in your pregnancy, please do get in touch. I may still have availability.

Will you support me if I choose an epidural or caesarean birth?

Absolutely.

I believe there is no single right way to give birth.

Whether you are planning a home birth, hospital birth, water birth, vaginal birth, VBAC or caesarean birth, I will support your informed choices without judgement.

Your birth experience matters, however your baby enters the world.

Can you support me if I have experienced birth trauma?

Yes. I understand that previous birth experiences can have a lasting emotional impact.

I offer a gentle, trauma-informed approach, allowing space for your feelings, concerns and hopes for your upcoming birth.

We can explore what may help you feel safer, more informed and supported this time.

I will always respect your boundaries, consent and individual needs.

Will you replace my birth partner?

Not at all.

My role is to support both you and your birth partner, helping them feel included, confident and reassured.

Some partners prefer to be actively involved, while others appreciate having someone experienced to guide and support them.

We will work together in whatever way feels most comfortable for your family.

When will you join me during labour?

During our antenatal meetings, we will discuss the signs of early labour, when to contact me and when you would like me to join you.

My aim is to provide a familiar, supportive presence when you feel you need me.

The arrangements for on-call availability and attendance will be explained clearly before booking.

What is a postnatal doula?

A postnatal doula provides emotional, practical and nurturing support to families following the birth of their baby.

The early weeks of parenthood can be beautiful, exhausting, overwhelming and everything in between.

My role is to help create a calm, supportive environment where you can recover, rest, bond with your baby and grow in confidence.

What does a postnatal doula actually do?

Postnatal support is tailored to your family's individual needs and may include:

- Emotional support and a listening ear

- Practical newborn care guidance

- Support with feeding and settling your baby

- Preparing simple, nourishing meals

- Light household tasks related to your postnatal wellbeing

- Helping you find time to rest, shower or sleep

- Supporting you with older children

- Offering reassurance as you adjust to life with your baby

Sometimes the most valuable thing I can offer is simply being there, providing a calm presence and an extra pair of hands.

Can you help with breastfeeding as part of postnatal doula support?

Yes. Alongside my doula work, I am also an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC).

I can provide general feeding guidance during postnatal visits.

If you are experiencing more complex feeding difficulties, we can arrange a dedicated IBCLC consultation for a thorough assessment and individualised feeding plan.

Do you offer overnight postnatal support?

Yes. Overnight support can be particularly helpful for families who need additional rest and reassurance during the early weeks.

Depending on your needs and feeding arrangements, I can help with newborn care, settling, nappy changes and bringing your baby to you for feeds.

We will discuss how best to support you while ensuring your baby's feeding and care needs are met.

Can I book a postnatal doula even if I didn't have a birth doula?

Absolutely.

You do not need to have booked me for your birth to receive postnatal support.

Whether you are preparing for your baby's arrival or have already welcomed your little one, you are very welcome to get in touch.

Can you support me after a caesarean birth?

Yes. Recovering from a caesarean birth while caring for a newborn can require additional practical and emotional support.

I can help you create space for rest and recovery, support you with everyday tasks and offer gentle reassurance as you adjust to life with your baby.

How long can I have postnatal doula support?

Every family's needs are different.

Some families book support during the first few weeks, while others benefit from regular visits over several months.

We can discuss a flexible arrangement that suits your circumstances, preferences and availability.

Do you offer birth and postnatal doula services in South London?

Yes. I support families across South London and surrounding areas.

Please contact me with your location, estimated due date or baby's age, and the type of support you are looking for.

How do I know if you are the right doula for me?

Choosing a doula is a personal decision, and feeling comfortable with the person supporting you is so important.

I welcome the opportunity to have an initial conversation, hear about your hopes and expectations, and answer any questions you may have.

There is no pressure to book. It is simply an opportunity for us to get to know one another and see whether we are a good fit.