Q&A with Birth Doula Hannah Golden

Giving birth is a life-changing experience, and many women feel more comfortable having a knowledgeable and experienced partner by their side. Enter the birth doula. Hannah Golden is a bay area birth doula who is to support her clients during this special time in their life. Recently, I spoke to Hannah about her experience and how she supports her clients. Read the interview below!

 

Meet Birth Doula Hannah Golden

Before we dive it, tell us about yourself!

Hi, I am Hannah Golden, birth doula, perinatal personal trainer and nutrition coach! I believe that labor is the most athletic event of a woman’s life and requires proper training and support. With a lifelong passion for helping others, my background as an athletic trainer has been instrumental in supporting athletes through their competitions. As I delved deeper into maternal care, I felt a strong pull towards the birth community, which transformed my passion from athletics to labor.

Now, as a birth doula, perinatal personal trainer, and nutrition coach, I am dedicated to educating you about your labor options and guiding you in making informed choices. My goal is to ensure the healthiest experience possible, fully preparing you for this transformative journey to motherhood. Whether it’s through tailored fitness programs, nutritional guidance, or continuous support during labor, I’m here to empower you every step of the way.

What does a doula do?

A doula is a trained professional who provides continuous physical, emotional, and informational support to a person before, during, and shortly after childbirth. The word “doula” comes from the ancient Greek, meaning “a woman who serves,” and today, doulas serve in various capacities to ensure a positive birthing experience. Before labor begins, doulas help you create a birth plan, explain your options, and practice pain management techniques. They also assist in processing any fears, offering reassurance and preparation for the journey ahead. During labor, doulas offer continuous support, staying by your side to provide physical comfort through techniques like massage and positioning. They create a calming environment, guide you through breathing exercises, and help you stay focused and empowered. And lastly, doulas are well-connected within the birth community and can refer you to trusted professionals such as midwives, lactation consultants, or pelvic floor therapists. This ensures you receive comprehensive care tailored to your unique needs throughout pregnancy, birth, and postpartum.

What is the difference between a midwife and a doula?

A midwife is a healthcare professional who provides medical care during pregnancy, labor, and postpartum, including delivering babies and handling complications. Midwives require formal medical training and certification. In contrast, a doula is a non-medical professional who offers emotional, physical, and informational support throughout pregnancy, labor, and postpartum, focusing on comfort and advocacy. Doulas have many certification options, but they are not licensed to perform clinical tasks.

 

Why might someone choose a doula to attend their birth?

Studies have shown that the presence of a doula during labor can lead to shorter labors, fewer medical interventions (such as cesarean sections and epidurals), and a more satisfying birth experience overall. Doulas do not replace medical professionals; instead, they complement the care provided by doctors and midwives by focusing on the holistic needs of the birthing person.

 

Do you assist with in-home births, hospital births or both?

I am happy to assist any birth you want; hospital, birth center or home!

 

Does insurance cover the cost of a doula? If not, what are some ways families cover the cost?

While most insurance companies don’t typically cover doulas, there are several ways to get reimbursed for doula services:

Employer Coverage: Check if your employer offers Carrot Fertility insurance or similar programs. HSA/FSA Accounts: Doula services can be eligible for reimbursement through your HSA or FSA with a note from your OB.

Insurance Claims: With a medical note from your OB, you might be able to submit a claim to your insurance for reimbursement.

Payment Plans: Many doulas are willing to offer payment plans to help ease the financial burden.

What questions should an expectant mom ask a potential doula?

When interviewing potential doulas, expectant moms should consider asking the following questions to ensure they find the right fit for their needs:

What is your experience and training as a doula? Ask about their background, including how long they’ve been practicing, their certifications, and how many births they’ve attended.

What is your philosophy on childbirth? Understanding the doula’s approach to birth can help ensure it aligns with your own values and expectations.

How do you support a partner’s involvement during labor? If you have a partner, it’s important to know how the doula will include and support them during the birth process.

What services do you provide during prenatal visits and postpartum? Clarify what kind of support you can expect before labor begins and after the baby is born, such as help with breastfeeding or emotional support.

 

What area do you service?

I serve the Peninsula and South Bay Area, from San Mateo down to Morgan Hill and over to Fremont.

 

Where can people find you online?

Instagram

Website: Golden Grace Birth + Fitness

Birth Doula Hannah Golden

Thank you so much for all of this information, Hannah, and I’m so happy that I was able to introduce your services to my audience today. I hope that everyone enjoyed this useful information.

You might also like:

San Francisco Birth Center for Personal, Dedicated Midwifery Care

Mills Peninsula Birth Center for Family Focused Care

Q&A with a Pelvic Floor Occupational Therapist