Frequently Asked Questions
How is birth helped by having a doula?
Multiple studies have consistently shown that doula care is associated with shorter labors, less use of epidurals and other pain medications, lower episiotomy rates, and as much as a 50% reduction in the C-section rate. Research has also shown better clinical outcomes for both the mother and the baby (including fewer admissions to neonatal special care units, better breastfeeding rates, and better family bonding). A doula also provides care for the mother’s partner and other family members, assists busy hospital staff, saves money, and greatly increases a mother’s overall satisfaction with her birthing experience. In addition to birth support your doula will become a valuable addition to your pregancy, always there to answer you questions and help you through the uncertainty and questions of the last few weeks.
Aren’t doulas only for “natural” births
No, certainly not! Doulas are for anyone and everyone who wants support for their birth and postpartum experience. We support all women and their choices for delivery! We recognize that each client brings a different life view to the table and we provide unbiased and objective support. At ABQ Doulas, we believe the most important role of the doula is to educate and assist the mother & family in articulating the way in which THEY envision THEIR birth. We support mothers and their choices, plain and simple – how they choose to birth and care for their baby is just that, their choice.
Do you support clients that plan to use an epidural?
Can I still use doula if I have planned or unexpected C-section?
Yes, a woman having a C-section can still use a doula’s support. The doula may or may not be in the operating room, depending on the wishes of the family and hospital policy, but either way, the doula is still there for the new mother during the prep time and in the recovery room. When you choose us as your doulas we will go over all the different contingency plans we have in place for such events. We can still support you through a C- section. And we try to be very flexible when unusual circumstances crop up.
Are all your doulas trained?
Yes, the team at ABQ Doulas is made up of experienced, professionally trained and certified doulas. 
Does a doula replace my partner?
Some partners may feel concerned that a doula will displace them or interfere with the intimacy of the birth experience. We would be horrified if we did this! Your partner has a very special role in childbirth, they have an intimate knowledge of you and will be able to tune in and support you in a unique way. Having doula support helps make sure that the partner’s needs are also met (food, drink, rest, encouragement, time for phone calls, and bathroom breaks). Having a doula can enable each partner to participate at their own comfort level and reduce stress. Every family has their own dynamic and we work with yours. A doula can allow you and your partner to relax more fully and focus on each other, rather than trying to recall everything you learned in class or in books. A doula will also offer suggestions or demonstrate comfort measures for the partner so they can participate with a greater sense of usefulness.
What is a TENS?
You ABQ Doulas will offer you TENS as a labor option. TENS units are often used in the UK, Australia and Canada as a method for pain relief and comfort during labor. TENS stands for Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation and has been used with great satisfaction by mothers for many years. It is a helpful and proven tool for women as a safe option for pain relief that is applied in early labor. Whether you’re planning a medicated or unmedicated birth, TENS units specifically designed for use during labor can bring you comfort, delay the use of pain medications, and help with back labor. And the good news is….if you hire us as your Doulas, you will have a TENS unit to use for your birth included in your fee! ABQ Doulas uses OBI TENS units, specially designed for use in labor. We will give you the chance to try one out at your one of your prenatal visits to see if it is an option you’d like to use at your labor. For more information on how TENS works visit this great article:
https://www.parents.com/pregnancy/giving-birth/labor-and-delivery/tens-unit-for-pregnancy-labor/
Will my health insurance pay your fees?
Sadly at this time, it will most likely not. It would be wonderful if your insurance provider covered our services fees but at this time it is rare. We encourage you to go ahead and file a claim if you wish, but we cannot guarantee payment and we cannot file for you directly. We can, however, take payments from your HSA or FSA accounts. Some employers offer reimbursement for doula services and we are happy to fill out the necessary paperwork for you!