The Role of a Doula in Your Birth Journey
As both a board-certified perinatal chiropractor and a trained birth doula, I've had the privilege of supporting mothers through one of the most transformative moments of their lives. I have witnessed countless times how dedicated, knowledgeable support during childbirth can transform the entire birth experience.
Let me share with you what a doula is, how we support mothers, and why this support is so valuable for birth outcomes.
WHAT IS A DOULA?
A doula is someone who provides continuous physical, emotional, and informational support to mothers before, during, and after childbirth. Unlike medical professionals who focus primarily on clinical care, doulas concentrate on the mother's comfort, confidence, and overall experience. A doula does not always have to be a trained professional, some women choose to have their partner, friend, sister, or mom as their doula.
We don't replace medical staff or partners but rather complement them. We are hired by our clients, not hospital staff, midwives, or other medical professionals. But, we do work alongside the mom’s birth support team, helping them when needed while maintaining my primary focus on her wellbeing.
THE CARE A DOULA PROVIDES
Doula care is comprehensive and personalized and can change throughout each stage of birth.
Before Birth: We help mothers prepare mentally and physically for childbirth. As both a chiropractor and doula, I provide holistic care that helps mothers' bodies grow into pregnancy.
During Labor: We offer continuous presence and support through:
Physical comfort measures like counter pressure during contractions
Maintaining hydration with water and providing cooling rags
Creating a calming, positive environment
Offering reassurance and encouragement
Advocating for the mother's preferences and needs
Supporting partners in their role
After Birth: We continue support during those important first hours, ensuring mothers are nourished, comfortable, and feeling settled with their newborns.
Being both a perinatal chiropractor and doula, I bring a unique perspective to birth support. Understanding the biomechanics of the body allows me to help mothers achieve optimal alignment before and during labor, potentially making the process more comfortable and efficient.
WHY EVERY MOTHER NEEDS A DOULA
Reduced Anxiety: Birth can be intimidating, especially in hospital settings where mothers may worry about having their wishes respected or even as a first time mom not knowing what to expect. A doula provides a calming, grounding presence that helps ease these anxieties.
Informed Advocacy: Doulas understand the physiological birth process and can help ensure mothers' voices are heard when they feel most vulnerable. We help create space for informed decision-making rather than decisions made from fear.
Continuity of Care: Unlike hospital staff who work in shifts, as your doula I stay with my clients throughout labor. This continuous presence creates a sense of security and stability.
Support for Partners: Doulas don't replace partners but rather support them too, helping them feel more confident in their supporting role.
IMPROVED BIRTH OUTCOMES
Research consistently shows that doula support is associated with:
Shorter labors
Reduced need for pain medication
Lower rates of interventions like cesarean sections
Higher satisfaction with the birth experience
Improved maternal emotional well-being postpartum
When mothers feel supported, calm, and empowered during childbirth, their bodies can work more efficiently.
Birth is not a medical event, it’s a profound life transition. Having someone dedicated to your comfort, confidence, and overall experience can transform what might otherwise be overwhelming into something truly unforgettable in the best possible way.
Whether you're planning a hospital birth, birth center delivery, or home birth, a doula's support adapts to your unique situation and needs. Having a doula at your side will not only make the difficult moments feel more manageable, but it will also make the joyous moments even sweeter.
Every mother deserves to feel supported, empowered, and celebrated during childbirth. That's what doula care is all about.
WHAT MY CLIENTS HAVE SAID
“Jaime was such an amazing presence to have at my birth, she was so calm and on top of caring for me! She kept my water full, continually gave me cold rags for my back and forehead, she helped my midwives whenever they needed her to grab something and helped me through transition like a champ with counter pressure and encouraging words! During the time after birth, where baby and I were being checked, she was a beautiful addition to our lighthearted and happy conversation! During that time, she continued to make sure I was drinking water and eating. She even stayed longer than we expected to make sure my husband and I were both settled before she left! All this being said, I couldn’t have asked for a better doula to be at my birth and would recommend her to anyone!”
“When I was pregnant with my first baby, I knew I wanted a doula by my side during childbirth, and I’m so grateful I chose Jaime. Not only is she my chiropractor, but she also became an incredible support system during one of the most meaningful moments of my life. I had anxiety about giving birth in a hospital setting. I needed someone who understood the childbirth process and could advocate for me when I felt most vulnerable. Jaime was that person and so much more. She was a calming, grounding presence. Her knowledge, compassion, and reassurance helped ease my anxieties and gave me the confidence to trust my body and my decisions. That special day was filled with laughter, hugs, and moments of celebration—Jaime was right there with us, cheering me on and helping me and my husband feel cared for. She’s a gift, and every mother deserves someone like Jaime by their side on such an important day.”
For more pregnancy wellness tips, follow along on Instagram @yourfamilychirokc.
