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5 Reasons to Hire a Birth Doula

Ânia Freitas Doula showing a pelvic model and a baby doll through it

This week on a birthworker's circle we were discussing different topics and one of the things discussed was why people chose to have a doula in their birth.


Of course, the reasons will differ a lot from person to person based on their experiences and what they perceive the role of a doula is. From my experience, people come to me because:

  • they had a traumatic first birth and this time they want to do things differently

  • they have a friend who had a doula and loved it

  • they are a solo parent person and need extra support

  • they are from another country and need support to navigate the maternity system in Northern Ireland.

  • they think the doula is the magic pill and will "save them" from a bad birth experience


Well, one thing I can assure you, we are not here to save anybody from anything, that is not my role. My role as a birth doula in Belfast is to work with you and your partner (if you have one) to find in you the answers to your questions, or point in the direction of where to get the evidence-based information.


Nowadays, we live in a very fast world, and where theres a solution and responses to everything at your fingertips and we are so disconnected to nature, our body. This disconnection somehow see to be resulting in some people don't wanting to assume their birth responsability, instead they prefer to delegate it to other people, e.g. health professionals and trust blindly in them without any questioning.


So in my opinion, these would be my top 5 reasons why hiring a doula in Belfast

  1. Continuous Support – Unlike hospital staff who change shifts, I stay with you throughout your labour, offering uninterrupted emotional and physical support. You’ll always have a familiar face by your side.

  2. Reduced Interventions – Studies show that having a doula can lower the chances of interventions like inductions, epidurals, and C-sections. When people feel safe, supported, and heard, births tend to go more smoothly.

  3. Advocacy & Guidance – A doula helps you understand your options, communicate your preferences, and navigate the maternity system. I’ll show you tools and techniques to help you feel empowered to make informed decisions about your birth.

  4. Partner Support – Doulas don’t replace birth partners; instead, we help them feel more confident in supporting you. I guide them on how to provide comfort, advocate for you, and be an active part of your birth experience (but don't do magic here! they need to be invested in this journey too)

  5. Help you find your answers - From pregnancy to postpartum, a doula is there to ask the right questions, hold space, and help you dig deep to find what truly matters to you. There’s no agenda, no pushing—just support for your choices.


If you’re thinking about hiring a birth doula in Belfast,





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