Birth support
What exactly is a doula?
A doula is a professional companion trained to support the mother and her partner emotionally, physically, and informatively before, during, and after childbirth. I do not replace your doctor, midwife, or nurse. I am here as a complement, so that you feel surrounded, prepared, and confident throughout the entire process.
What is the difference between a doula and a midwife?
The midwife is a healthcare professional who medically monitors your pregnancy and can deliver your baby. I have no medical role; my role is human. I am there to hold your hand, guide your partner, help you manage contractions, offer you a non-judgmental space, and ensure you make informed choices. The two roles complement each other very well.
How much do your services cost?
Each coaching program is tailored to your specific situation, so packages vary. The best way to find out what suits you and what it costs is through a free discovery call. We'll discuss your needs, and I'll present concrete options. No commitment required.
Are your services covered by insurance?
Yes, I issue official receipts for all my services. Several private insurance plans partially or fully cover doula and perinatal support services. I recommend checking directly with your insurer to see what is eligible under your plan.
When in my pregnancy should I contact you?
The sooner the better, ideally around the 28th week, so that we have time to get to know each other, have the prenatal meetings, and for you to feel truly prepared. That said, if you are further along in your pregnancy, please contact me anyway.
What if I give birth before or after my due date?
That's exactly why I have an on-call period. Once you're my client, I make myself available to you around your due date. If labor starts at 3 AM or a week before your due date, you call me and I come.
Do you offer support for hospital births, birth center births, and home births?
Yes, no matter where you choose to give birth. My support adapts to your birthing place and your preferences, not the other way around.
What if I want the epidural?
My role is not to convince you to give birth in a certain way. I am here to support YOUR choices, not my own. You want an epidural? You change your mind along the way? Zero judgment, zero pressure. I will support you in whatever you want to experience.
What about a C-section?
My support does not stop if the birth takes an unexpected turn. Whether it's a planned C-section or a decision made during labor, I remain by your side so that you can experience this moment as positively and respectfully as possible.
Is my partner included in the support?
Absolutely, and it's even a priority. Many partners don't know how to concretely help on the big day. My role includes empowering them, guiding them, and actively involving them in the process, so that you form a real team that day.
Questions to ask before hiring a doula
Why? → Why do I want to be supported by a doula?
What for? → What are my specific needs (emotional, practical, information, presence)?
For whom? → Is it just for me, or also for my partner and family?
When? → At what stage of my maternity do I need support (pregnancy, childbirth, postpartum)?
Where? → Do I prefer online, home, or other types of meetings?
How? → What approach and energy would I like to find in my doula?
How much? → What budget do I want to invest for this support?
The main thing is to choose a doula you feel confident with. After making a list of doulas who seem suitable, take the time to talk with them. During your meeting, discuss your concerns about the pregnancy and ask all the questions you have. It is important to feel comfortable with a doula, as you will share a very intimate moment together.
How to choose a doula?
Choosing a doula is first and foremost about choosing someone you feel comfortable with. Here are some tips to help you:
1. Trust your gut feeling → A good connection is essential. Ask yourself: Do I feel confident and comfortable with her?
2. Discover her approach → Each doula has her own style: some focus on gentleness, others more on information or practical aspects.
3. Discuss your needs → Pregnancy, childbirth, postpartum... see if she can meet your expectations.
4. Request a discovery call → Many doulas offer a free initial consultation.
5. Consider practical aspects → Availability, geographical proximity, online or home services.
6. Check her values → Do they resonate with yours (kindness, respect, empowerment, non-judgment)?
When and how should you start working with a doula?
It is recommended to contact a doula at the beginning of your pregnancy, ideally in the first trimester. The earlier the support begins, the more trust is built and the more benefits can be gained. I suggest no later than the second trimester, but many mothers start as soon as they feel the need. There is no strict rule: you can even call upon a doula in preparation for pregnancy or after birth if needed, depending on each person's journey.
Does a doula replace a midwife or a doctor?
No. A doula is not a healthcare professional and does not in any way replace medical monitoring (midwife or gynecologist). On the contrary, her role is strictly complementary. She does not perform medical acts or diagnoses. According to the Doulas de France Association, she intervenes "in addition to the medical follow-up chosen by the parents" and works in conjunction with the medical team. In practice, the doula supports the mother emotionally and physically, while the midwife or doctor ensures medical follow-up and the safety of the baby.
What are the benefits of having a doula?
Numerous studies have shown that continuous doula support improves the birth experience. The positive effects observed include an increase in spontaneous vaginal births, a decrease in the rate of C-sections and epidural use, as well as a reduction in the duration of labor and instrumental interventions (forceps, vacuum). Support also promotes the initiation of breastfeeding and overall parental satisfaction, while reducing the risk of baby blues or postpartum depression. In short, the reassuring and expert presence of a doula allows the whole family to experience birth more serenely and confidently.