Should I Hire a Doula? 5 Questions to Help You Decide
You’ve heard the stories.
The “my doula changed everything” stories.
The “I couldn’t have done it without her” stories.
And maybe you’re intrigued… but also wondering:
Do I really need a doula? Is that extra—or essential?
Here’s my take: A doula isn’t right for everyone—but everyone needs support.
If you’re feeling unsure, these five questions will help you figure out what’s right for you, your birth vision, and your real life.
1. Do I Have the Support I Want—Emotionally, Physically, and Spiritually?
It’s easy to assume, “My partner or mom will be there, I’ll be fine.” But birth asks for more than presence—it asks for protection.
Ask yourself:
Will the people in the room respect my values & protect my space—or drain my energy?
Do they know how to support me physically (comfort measures, positions, hands-on care)?
Can they advocate for me—or do they even know what I’d want them to speak up about?
A doula doesn’t replace your partner—they support both of you.
And if you don’t want one in the room, I get it! I didn’t either and I am a doula myself! A virtual doula can still walk with you before, during, and after to provide support without physical presence.
2. Do I Know My Options—And Feel Confident Navigating Them?
You don’t need a medical degree. But you do need to:
Understand your options
Know what’s “routine”, what’s optional, and what’s necessary
Feel empowered to say yes or no with confidence
This isn’t about “being nice” in the birth room.
It’s about being informed and assertive—and knowing that your voice matters.
If you’re thinking “I don’t even know what I don’t know,” that’s okay. That’s exactly why I created the Created for Birth Course—to help you prep with peace and truth, from a Christ-centered lens.
This is your experience. You are in charge!
3. Am I Hoping for a Natural Birth… or Just a Supported One?
You don’t have to want an unmedicated birth to benefit from a doula.
In fact, a doula can still:
Help you stay calm and mobile while waiting for the epidural
Offer positioning tools to help baby rotate or descend
Reassure and guide you if the epidural wears off or doesn't fully work
Keep you connected to your body, breath, and baby—not just the monitor
A faith-based doula also brings spiritual presence—prayer, scripture, and calm—which doesn’t go away just because medication is involved.
4. Does My Season of Life Call for Extra Care?
If you’re:
Pregnant with baby #2 or #3 and juggling little ones
Navigating a past traumatic birth
Carrying anxiety, doubt, or decision fatigue
Then extra support might not just be helpful—it might be healing.
You don’t need to “figure it out” on your own. That’s what a doula, especially one who understands your values, is for.
5. What Kind of Support Am I Actually Craving?
Let’s name it: not every mom wants someone hovering or chatting during labor. Some of us want privacy. Quiet. Presence without pressure.
If that’s you, a virtual doula might be the better fit.
It’s support before, during and after birth—with:
Personalized prep sessions
Space to process fears, decisions, and boundaries
Ongoing encouragement and clarity
All without adding one more body to the birth room. You get guidance—but on your terms.
Bonus: What If I’m Worried About the Budget?
This is real. Birth support is an investment—and not every family has room for the full package.
Here’s the good news:
Virtual support is often more affordable than in-person doula care
You can still access 1-on-1 wisdom through a single Plan & Prep Call
And during Black Friday, I’ll be offering a special rate so more mamas can access care they might not otherwise reach
Support doesn’t have to be all or nothing.
There’s a way to do this your way, and I’ll help you find it.
Not Sure About a Doula? Let’s Talk Through It
If you’re unsure about hiring a doula—or you’re craving guidance but not the full commitment—complete this contact form on my website to schedule a FREE no-pressure call to talk through what might be best for you!
