Frequently Asked Questions about Doulas (For MO HealthNet Participants)

What is a doula?

A doula is a non-medical trained professional who provides physical, emotional, and informational support to you while you are pregnant. A doula provides support before, during, and up to a year after the delivery of your baby. The doula’s goal is to help you achieve the healthiest outcomes possible. A doula also works to ensure you feel safe, empowered, informed, respected, and heard throughout your pregnancy, labor, and delivery. 

How can a doula help me?

Some services that a doula can provide are:

  • Support and education during your pregnancy, including: 
     
    • What you can expect during your pregnancy, birth, and after the birth
       
    • Importance of check-ups with your doctor or midwife
       
    • Nutrition
       
    • Exercise
       
    • Stopping tobacco, drug, and alcohol use
       
    • Health risks to watch for
       
    • Helping dads know what to expect
       
  • Helping you find resources and assistance programs in your community like housing, healthcare, food, baby supplies, and more
     
  • Childbirth support including:
     
    • Understanding what to expect during labor and birth, creating a birth plan, and sharing it with your doctor or midwife
       
    • Advocating for you and helping you communicate with doctors and nurses during labor
       
  • Non-medical support and comfort measures, including personal and cultural preferences
     
  • Breastfeeding education and support
     
  • Support after your baby is born, including:
     
    • What to expect
       
    • What is normal and what may be a concern
       
    • Talking with doctors and other healthcare providers
       
    • Beginning or returning to regular healthcare
       
    • Family planning (e.g., birth control or planning for more children)
       
    • Watching out for depression after your baby is born
       
    • Making sure dad has the knowledge to support you and the baby
       
    • Learning about how your baby will grow and what they need from you
       
    • Moving to other insurance (if needed)
How much will it cost me to receive doula services?

If you have MO HealthNet coverage, doula services are free. 

How do I get MO HealthNet coverage?

If you don’t have healthcare coverage, you can apply for MO HealthNet here: mydss.mo.gov/healthcare/apply

Can I use a doula instead of a doctor?

No, doulas do not replace the doctors, nurses, and other medical healthcare providers who care for you in the hospital. Doulas do not deliver babies, rather they provide support through the process. You may consider using a certified nurse midwife to deliver the baby; midwives and doulas are accustomed to working together as a team.

Does a doula just help with the delivery of my baby?

No, a doula does much more. A doula provides support before, during, and up to one year after childbirth.

Can a doula provide breastfeeding support?

Yes, a doula can teach you the basics of breastfeeding.  They can also recognize when there is a concern that should be referred to a certified lactation consultant. Also, they can often help you find a certified lactation consultant.

If I use a doula, does that mean I have to have a home birth?

No, if you use a doula, you do not have to have a home birth. Doulas provide support in hospitals, birthing centers, or at home, based on your preferences and your medical provider’s advice, regardless of where you may give birth.

How do I find a doula?

If you have MO HealthNet, you can search for providers in the directory at www.mymohealthportal.com. 

You can also refer to the Find a Doula resource at the Missouri Community Doula Council or contact the Missouri Doula Association.