Pregnant or just had a baby? A doula can help you! 

Welcoming a baby is one of life’s most special moments. It’s normal to have lots of questions and maybe feel a bit nervous, too. A doula can help you through this time. 

What is a doula?

A doula is a person who helps you when you're having a baby. They stay with you before, during and after your baby is born. Doulas make you feel comfortable. They are like a helpful friend, but they also have special training. Some doulas offer support during a miscarriage, stillbirth or abortion. Doulas are not doctors or nurses, but they work with them to help you.

What does a doula do?

Before your baby is born

• Answers your questions: Doulas know a lot about pregnancy and birth. They can help you understand what's happening and make good choices. 
• Helps you relax: Pregnancy can be tiring and stressful. Your doula can teach you ways to relax your body and mind. 
• Makes a birth plan with you: A birth plan is a list of what you want during labor and birth. Your doula will help you make a plan that feels right for you.  

During labor and birth

• Stays by your side when needed: Your doula will be there to support you. They can help you feel strong and safe. 
• Shows you how to move and breathe: Moving and breathing in certain ways can help you feel better during labor. Your doula can show you how. 
• Speaks up for you: Your doula can make sure the doctors and nurses know what you want. 

After your baby is born

• Helps you feed your baby: Your doula can help you learn to breastfeed or bottle-feed your baby. 
• Helps you care for your baby: Your doula can show you how to change diapers, give your baby a bath and comfort your baby. 
• Listens to you: Having a new baby is a big change. Your doula will listen to your feelings and offer support. 

Who can get a doula?

If you are an Alliance member and you are pregnant or had a baby in the last year, you can get help from a doula. Doula services are a covered benefit at no cost to you. 

How to get started

It's easy to get a doula. You don’t need a note from your doctor. 

• Call us: Call Alliance Member Services at 800-700-3874 (TTY: Dial 711), Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. 
• Look online: Visit our Provider Directory and click on "Doula" under Specialty/Type. You can see a list of doulas near you who are in the Alliance network. 

Once you find a doula, call them to schedule a consultation to see how they can help you. 

Need language help? Visit the Alliance Language Assistance Services page or call 800-735-2929 (TTY: Dial 711).