What Does a Doula Do?Your Friendly Guide to Doula Support in Singapore
If you’re expecting a baby in Singapore, whether a long-time resident or new arrival you’re probably filled with excitement—but also a ton of questions. One of the big questions that often comes up is: What exactly does a doula do? Maybe you’ve heard the term before, but aren’t quite sure how a doula fits into your birth experience. Don’t worry, you’re not alone! In this article, we’ll break it down for you in a simple and friendly way.
Let’s explore the role of a doula, how they support you before, during, and after birth, and why having one could make a huge difference in your pregnancy journey.Don’t worry about sounding professional. Sound like you. There are over 1.5 billion websites out there, but your story is what’s going to separate this one from the rest. If you read the words back and don’t hear your own voice in your head, that’s a good sign you still have more work to do.
Be clear, be confident and don’t overthink it. The beauty of your story is that it’s going to continue to evolve and your site can evolve with it. Your goal should be to make it feel right for right now. Later will take care of itself. It always does.
A doula is someone who’s there to support you physically, emotionally, and informationally during pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum period. They’re not doctors or midwives—they don’t deliver babies or give medical advice. But what they do is incredibly important: they focus on you, making sure you feel supported, informed, and empowered throughout your entire experience
Doulas in Singapore are welcome at most major maternity hospitals (like KK Women’s & Children’s Hospital, Thomson Medical, Mount Elizabeth,NUH, Raffles Hospital and more). They can also offer guidance on hospital routines and protocols, especially useful for expat and multicultural families navigating new systems for the first time.
There are two main types of doulas In Singapore:
Birth Doulas: These doulas are with you during labor and childbirth, helping you every step of the way.
Postpartum Doulas: These doulas step in after the baby arrives to help you adjust to life with your newborn, offering support with everything from breastfeeding to self-care.
As birth expert Penny Simkin puts it:
"A doula is not a substitute for a good healthcare provider. Rather, she is an essential part of the birth team, working with the doctor or midwife to provide the best possible experience."
How Does a Doula Help You Before Birth?
The support from your doula actually starts before you even go into labor. They’re there to guide and reassure you as you prepare for this life-changing moment.
1. Education and Information
A doula helps you get clear on your options in Singapore and gives you all the information you need to make the best choices for your birth. Whether you're choosing where to give birth, what pain relief options to explore, or how to create your birth plan, they’ve got your back with evidence-based info and guidance.
2. Birth Plan Support
If you’re thinking about creating a birth plan, a doula can help you put one together that aligns with your desires and values. They’ll walk you through different choices and explain what you can expect, so you're feeling confident and prepared.
3. Emotional Support
Pregnancy can be full of ups and downs, and having someone who listens and reassures you can make a big difference. A doula creates a safe space where you can talk about any concerns, share your hopes, or just vent if you need to. They’re there to help you feel calm and ready for what's ahead.
As Debra Pascali-Bonaro, a renowned doula and author, says:
"The doula’s job is to help you feel confident in your choices, empowered in your decisions, and supported in whatever birth experience you desire."
How Does a Doula Support You During Labor?
When labor starts, your doula will be right there with you, providing support and guidance throughout the entire process. Their goal is to help you feel calm, confident, and empowered as you bring your baby into the world.
1. Physical Support
Doulas are pros at comfort measures that help you feel better during labor. Whether it’s helping you try different positions, giving you a soothing massage, or coaching you through breathing exercises, they’re there to help you feel as comfortable as possible.
2. Emotional Support
Labor can bring up all kinds of emotions, and having someone by your side who’s calm, encouraging, and focused on you can make a huge difference. Your doula will be there to offer words of support, remind you of your strength, and keep you centered.
3. Support for Your Partner
Your partner is a big part of your birth team, and doulas are great at helping them get involved too. They’ll show your partner how to best support you, give them tips on offering comfort, and even help them take a break when needed.
4. Continuous Support
Unlike doctors or nurses who might rotate shifts, your doula stays with you throughout your labor.
As John H. Kennell, a researcher and advocate for doula support, says:
"Continuous labor support by a doula can have significant positive effects on the birth experience, reducing the need for pain relief and improving the emotional well-being of the family."
How Does a Doula Support You After Birth?
Your doula’s support doesn’t stop once your baby is born. In fact, postpartum care is a huge part of what they do. After birth, a postpartum doula helps with everything from newborn care to emotional support, so you can focus on healing and bonding with your baby.
1. Newborn Care
Doulas help you feel confident in caring for your newborn. Whether it’s diapering, soothing, or just figuring out how to manage the first few days, they’re there to answer questions and guide you.
2. Breastfeeding Support
If you're breastfeeding, a doula can offer hands-on support to help you with latch, positioning, and overcoming any challenges. They’re there to make sure both you and your baby are comfortable and supported.
3. Emotional Support for Parents
The postpartum period can be tough—both physically and emotionally. A doula is there to listen, reassure, and help you process all the changes you’re going through. They can also help you recognize when to seek further support if you're struggling with things like postpartum depression.
4. Self-Care for the Parent
Your doula will remind you that it’s okay to take care of yourself, too! From getting enough rest to making time for some personal moments, they help you strike that balance between caring for your baby and nurturing your own well-being.
Evidence-Based Benefits of Doula Support
Research has consistently shown that doula support has a positive impact on birth outcomes and overall satisfaction with the birth experience. Here are just a few of the benefits backed by evidence:
Shorter Labor
A study published in the Journal of Perinatal Education found that continuous labor support from a doula can shorten the length of labor by an average of 25%. That means less time spent in active labor and a quicker transition to holding your baby!Reduced Need for Pain Relief
Studies have also shown that having a doula can significantly reduce the need for pain relief interventions, including epidurals. One review in The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews showed that women who had a doula were less likely to use pain medications during labor.Fewer Medical Interventions
Research has demonstrated that doula support is associated with fewer medical interventions, such as the need for forceps or vacuum-assisted delivery, and a lower likelihood of needing a cesarean section. A study in Birth (the journal of the American College of Nurse-Midwives) found that doula-assisted births were less likely to result in cesarean sections and more likely to involve vaginal births.Improved Emotional Well-Being
Beyond physical outcomes, doula support is linked to improved emotional well-being for both the birthing person and their partner. A study in the Journal of Obstetric, Gynecologic & Neonatal Nursing found that people who had doula support during labor reported feeling more positive about their birth experiences, with higher levels of satisfaction and lower levels of postpartum anxiety.Better Breastfeeding Outcomes
Postpartum doulas, in particular, play a critical role in supporting breastfeeding. According to a study in the Journal of Human Lactation, having a doula present after birth is linked to better breastfeeding initiation and longer breastfeeding duration.
As Penny Simkin wisely said:
"Having a doula is about creating the kind of birth experience you want—one that leaves you feeling strong, positive, and empowered, no matter how the birth unfolds."
Ready for a Positive, Supported Birth?
If you want to learn more about how doula care, personalized to Singapore’s multicultural setting, can benefit your family, contact Papaya Wellness for a free chat