A- Z of doula support: A is for advocacy
- Pooja Mistry
- Jan 7
- 1 min read
Why feeling heard in birth matters
Advocacy in birth isn’t about being “difficult” or confrontational. It’s about ensuring that the birthing person remains at the centre of their own experience.
During pregnancy and labour, decisions can come quickly — often wrapped in medical language, time pressure, or routine practice. Without support, many parents later reflect that they agreed to things they didn’t fully understand, or felt unable to speak up in the moment.
Evidence shows that when women feel listened to and respected during birth, they report higher satisfaction and better emotional outcomes, regardless of how their birth unfolds (Hodnett et al., 2013). Feeling heard isn’t a “nice extra” — it directly impacts how safe and supported the body feels.
As a doula, advocacy is woven into everything I do. I don’t speak for you — I support you to speak, ask questions, and make decisions that feel aligned with your values. I help translate information, slow moments down when possible, and ensure both you and your birth partner feel confident navigating conversations with care providers.
I also support birth partners to step into this role gently and effectively. Many want to help but fear saying the wrong thing. Advocacy gives them structure, language, and reassurance.
Birth works best when the nervous system feels safe. Advocacy helps create that safety.
If you’re looking for calm, respectful support that keeps your voice central, I’d love to support you. Book a consultation to explore working together as your birth doula.
Pooja xo
Comments