I get it. I really do. While hiring a doula is incredibly beneficial, it's still a luxury. Unfortunately, not many insurance companies in the US cover the expense of a doula. (If you have a FSA, HSA, or HRA, you may be able to get reimbursed after you've paid for your doula services. You can read more about that here.) So, if you understand the benefit and want to tap into all that a doula offers but are already on a tight budget, how are you to afford one? 

Before we start talking about how to afford one, let's establish how much a doula typically costs. To do this, you're going to have to do a little research to determine how much a doula charges in your area as it varies greatly. Generally, if your cost of living is higher, the cost of a doula in your area will also be higher and vise versa.

Also, when comparing prices, take into account that, just like in any profession, you can expect to pay more for a person with more experience and/or training than someone who has less. A doula just starting out may have a reduce rate while they are certifying whereas the doula who has been in business for ten years and has five additional certifications is going to charge more, and rightfully so.

One great place to scope out the cost range in your area is on Doula Match. Simply enter your due date and zip code to find doulas and other birth professionals in your area. You'll be able to see their general prices listed and be able to contact them directly from the Doula Match website. 

​Over the last 30 years, water immersion for labor and birth has been growing in popularity as a means of reducing pain and stress during childbirth. The term “water immersion” is usually reserved to mean laboring in water during the first stage of labor and getting out of the water for the second and third stages of labor. The term “waterbirth” better describes what happens when the birthing person remains in the water during the second stage of birth, when baby is born. In this article, the two will be addressed as one. Keep in mind, however, that when and how much you use any time of water during labor and birth is up to you and should be talked over with your care provider.

​Herbs can be an excellent alternative to pharmaceutical drugs for pain relief and comfort during labor. Herbal teas for pregnancy and breastfeeding have become popular. And certainly, teas are an excellent way to ingest herbs. However, there are multiple ways to take herbs and a tea might not be the most convenient way during labor. Tinctures, which can be prepared in advance, might be.