You want to have the best pregnancy possible and you want to give birth in a way that brings you joy. You do not care what other people think of your choices, but rather how they make you feel. And when you’re wanting to have the most joyful birth possible, searching around for a doula in Chicago can make your experience that much more memorable. After all, their focus is to help women like you have the happiest birth possible!
Doulas in Chicago
They will sit down with you at your first appointment or phone call to talk about what kind of birth you want. And when you are searching around for the best Chicago doulas, keep one thing in mind.
The most important thing when it comes to your doula is how they make you feel.
Things to consider when hiring a doula are :
- How they make you feel
- The cost of doula services in Chicago, Illinois
- If their location is close to where you intend on giving birth
- If they are experienced
- If their schedule is flexible around your given due date
What is A Doula?
A doula is the Greek word for “female servant” or “nurse.” This term has been often used to describe any woman who assists new mothers with physical and emotional care. Doulas may provide support before, during and after childbirth; including massage, adjustments in positions while laboring through contractions, and general support during the birth process.
Are there different types of doulas?
Doulas can provide a variety of services, including but not limited to:
- Postpartum care
- Childbirth education and support before labor begins
- Massage therapy during pregnancy
- & more
What is the difference between midwives and doulas? Doulas are often described as partners or companions for pregnant women. They can feel like a wonderful support system throughout your pregnancy journey.
Questions to ask a doula
- What kind of training do you have?
- How long will I be working with you?
- Can my other family members work with you as well or how does that work?
- What happens if I unexpectedly go into labor early – or late? Will you still be available?
The importance of having a doula
Doulas can be great birth partners and provide comfort for you during the labor process. They are trained in assessing how your body is doing, giving massage therapy, breathing techniques to help with pain management, providing emotional support, and helping with postpartum care when you have a baby.
What is the difference between a midwife and a doula?
Doulas are typically not licensed medical professionals, and they do not deliver babies. Doula services often overlap with midwifery care because doulas can provide emotional support during childbirth as well as help a woman prepare for labor and birth.
Where can I find a Chicago midwife or doula to hire?
You can find many with some quick Google searches, but a few places to start your search can be through websites such as https://www.chicagovolunteerdoulas.org/, http://www.chicagofamilydoulas.com/, or https://www.chicagolanddoulas.com/.
Should I get a doula or a midwife?
If you have a low-risk pregnancy and want to be as informed as possible about the process, it may make sense for you to work with both. They can provide emotional support during childbirth and help prepare you for labor and birth.
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Are there any other types of medical professionals that I should talk to about my pregnancy?
Other types of professionals you can speak with about your pregnancy include doctors, obstetricians, and midwives (among others, of course).
As the pregnancy progresses, your doctor will discuss with you what should be done to prepare for birth.
And of course, should you need a maternity or newborn photographer in Chicago, you know I would absolutely love to be there for you – every step along the way. Simply send me a message. I’m here for you.
And while you’re here, have a look around at these other helpful blog posts on my site:
