Should You Hire a Doula For Your Baby's Birth?

Many people are unfamiliar with the specific role of a doula and may assume it is the same as a midwife. However, while both support pregnancy and childbirth, doulas focus on non-medical emotional and physical assistance, whereas midwives provide clinical care. While both provide critical support during pregnancy and birth, their roles differ. 

Nina (far right) supporting her client in the hospital shortly after birth.

A doula is a trained professional who provides emotional, physical, and informational support to a birthing person before, during, and after labor. According to DONA International and the American Pregnancy Association, doulas offer non-medical assistance to help birthing individuals navigate their experience with greater confidence and support. Unlike midwives, who offer medical care, doulas focus on advocacy, comfort measures, and education to empower families through childbirth.

To gain a deeper understanding of what a doula does, we spoke with Nina Koehler, a certified birth doula based in Indiana, about her experience, the benefits of having a doula, and what expecting parents should know when considering hiring one.

What is a doula?

Nina Koehler: "People often assume a doula is the same as a midwife, but they are very different. Midwives provide medical care, while doulas focus on non-medical support. Doulas must complete certification and ongoing education. I compare doulas to wedding planners—they guide and support parents throughout pregnancy, helping with birth plans, pain management, and involving partners. We’re there from the start to help ensure a positive birth experience."

Nina's client during a water birth at home.

If I say I'm a doula, people ask, 'Oh, like a midwife?' which is very, very different. We have incredible midwives in Indiana, and they are very well-trained. A doula does have to go through certification, so we are knowledgeable. We assist with birth plans, pain management, and even get partners involved. Fathers are not off the hook!"

When should you hire a doula?

Nina Koehler: "It's best to hire a doula early to build a relationship. Your doula should feel like someone you genuinely like and trust. However, if you're 37 weeks and feeling overwhelmed, it's never too late to hire one. In those cases, we meet more frequently to prepare for birth."

"The doula you choose should feel like someone you can be friends with. You need to be picky about who is in your birth space—it’s sacred."

How Does a Doula Support Labor and Delivery?

Nina Koehler: "Labor is an endurance event, not necessarily a medical emergency. I help with physical comfort techniques like counter pressure, movement, and breathing exercises. I encourage partner involvement and create a calm environment. In a hospital setting, I advocate for the birthing person's preferences and act as a bridge between them and medical staff. My goal is to ensure they feel empowered and supported throughout labor."

Nina's client and her husband working together during a serene water birth, with Nina providing support throughout the journey.

How Can a Doula Help if Birth Plans Change?

Nina Koehler: "Birth doesn’t always go as planned, so I help my clients prepare for different scenarios. I encourage them to visualize their ideal birth but also consider alternatives. If they need time to make a decision in the hospital, I suggest they ask for a moment to reflect. I also teach the BRAIN method—Benefits, Risks, Alternatives, Intuition, and Nothing—to help them make informed choices. My role is to support, not to make decisions for them."

How Can a Doula Improve the Birth Environment?

Nina Koehler: "The birth environment matters. I help clients personalize their space—dimming the lights, using fairy lights, playing calming music, and bringing comforting objects. If someone has anxiety about hospitals, small changes can make a big difference in making them feel safe and at ease."

A beautiful moment—Nina’s clients holding their newborn, soaking in the first moments of parenthood together.

What About Postpartum Support?

Nina Koehler: "While I focus on birth, postpartum doulas provide essential support after delivery. They help with newborn care, household tasks, and emotional well-being, allowing parents to focus on bonding with their baby. The fourth trimester can be challenging, and having extra support makes a difference."

Will Hiring a Doula Affect My Relationship with My OB?

Nina Koehler: "Most OBs support doulas, especially when we respect our role. If you're unsure, talk to your doctor and ask for recommendations. Also, don’t settle for the first doula you meet—interview a few to find the right fit. The most important thing is finding someone who makes you feel comfortable and supported."

*This interview has been edited for clarity and length. This is not medical advice.