A birth doula is a professional labor coach usually hired by couples (though some birthing facilities offer them) to help with physical, informational and emotional support. They are not there to provide any medical assistance (i.e. catch the baby or monitor fetal heart rates) nor do they take the place of the laboring woman’s partner unless that’s what the couple desires.
Postpartum doulas come after the baby is born to assist in the home. They may offer baby care, errand running, light housekeeping or other duties including night care.
Antepartum doulas come before the baby is born to assist mothers on bed rest, having difficult pregnancies or been classified as high risk. Like postpartum doulas they help with the home with light housekeeping, errand running and information.
The cost for a birth doula can range from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars depending on the area you live in and the expertise of the doula. Some insurance companies will reimburse you for the cost though, so be sure to check with your insurance company and doula regarding payment.
Postpartum and antepartum doulas usually charge an hourly fee that varies from $10/hr to $30/hr depending on her expertise and the area of the country you live in.
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