Yes, The WOMB Doulas have had the gift of being welcomed to attend births in all of the birthing suites, in all service areas from the Greater Toronto Area. Doulas ensure and maintain respect for the care team that the hospital provides for you and as such, have a collaborative relationship that is beneficial to you and your family, regardless of whether you birth with an Obstetrician, a Midwife or Family Doctor. Doulas also attend births at their client’s homes or in the Toronto Birthing Centre with Midwifery Care. Doulas do not speak to your care providers on your behalf.

A Midwife fills a very different role than a Doula. A Midwife is your primary care provider and they will take care of all of your medical needs. Midwifery responsibilities are similar to those of a nurse/obstetrician team. While many Midwives offer as much emotional and physical support as they can, their time is meant to be focused on medically monitoring you and your baby as well as documenting your labour.

Absolutely not!! Doulas are there to enhance your partner’s role. We know that no one loves you the way your partner loves you. There may be times that it is difficult for your partner to know how best to help you during your pregnancy, labour and birth so your Doula will provide suggestions, physical and emotional support (for BOTH of you) and, when needed, a chance for your partner to have a few minutes of a break so as to be able to best help you when you need it.

Whether a caesarean birth happens because it is scheduled in advance of your labour or something that transpires through the labour process, a Doula is trained to be able to provide you with exceptional support leading up to and through it.

Often, these days, The WOMB Doulas are being invited into the operating theatres with a birthing person and their partner. Being able to be in the operating room with you gives you the chance to have someone with you who can answer your questions and give you the opportunity to have your wishes heard while your care providers work and make sure you and your baby are safe. After the birth, your doula is able to be another pair of EXPERIENCED hands to help you with establishing breastfeeding, changing diapers, seeking out food for you and your partner and so much more.

While Doula fees are not covered by provincial health insurance plans there are more and more employment health benefits packages that DO cover Doula fees. It can be advantageous to ask your Human Resources contact at work to see if this is something that will apply for you.