Meet Your Virtual Doula
Hi, I’m Charlotte 👋
I’m a Virtual Doula and founder of The Smart Doula, offering bespoke, evidence-based support for pregnancy, birth, and beyond. With over a decade of clinical research experience and two hospital births of my own, I combine science with heart to help you feel informed, confident, and supported—however you choose to birth.
Why Doulas Deserve a Spot on Every Birth Team
When you're preparing to welcome a new baby, there are a million decisions to make, most are around what to buy! But one choice more and more families are making? Inviting a doula into their birth journey—and for good reason.
You might’ve seen the headlines questioning whether doulas are “dangerous.” So let’s clear that up right away: the evidence is in, and it’s crystal clear—doulas are not only safe, they’re incredibly beneficial.
So.. What Does the Research Say?
A comprehensive Cochrane Review (aka the gold standard in evidence-based medicine) looked at the role of continuous support for women during childbirth. The results?
“Continuous support during labour may improve outcomes for both mother and baby, and no adverse effects were found.”
In fact, support from someone trained solely to care for the birthing person—like a doula—has been shown to improve satisfaction, reduce stress, and even lead to better birth outcomes. We’re talking:
- A reduction in caesarean rate
- Shorter labours
- Less use of oxytocin
- Fewer epidural requests
- Improved postnatal mental health
- Improved chance of a ‘successful’ vaginal birth after caesarean
That’s powerful stuff.
But Wait… Aren’t Doulas Unregulated?
It’s true that in the UK, “doula” isn’t a protected title, and technically anyone could call themselves one. But many doulas choose to train with accredited programs and register with professional bodies. These often require:
- Evidence-based training
- Mentorship through real births
- Ongoing learning and support
So while it’s wise to do your research when choosing a doula, rest assured—many are highly trained, compassionate, and deeply dedicated to their role.
What About Virtual Doulas?
Yes, virtual doulas are real—and yes, they work.
A recent U.S. study of virtual doula support found that meeting with a doula two or more times reduced the chance of a C-section by nearly 20%. For those who had previously had a C-section, that number jumped to over 60%. Families also reported:
- Feeling more supported in birth preferences
- Improved emotional wellbeing
- Better access to medically accurate info
- Feeling heard and empowered
In short: you don’t have to be in the same room to feel truly held and supported.
Are Doulas Only for the Well-Off?
Not at all. While some doulas do charge higher fees, many also:
- Work with charities to offer reduced-cost or free care
- Provide payment plans (sometimes over months or even years)
- Offer budget-friendly virtual support
Birth support should never be a luxury. It’s a right—and many doulas feel passionately about making it accessible.
And No, We Don’t Only Support Home Birth
Every birthing person deserves support—no matter where or how they plan to give birth. While some doulas choose to specialise, many (like me!) support all kinds of birth:
🏥 Hospital births
🏡 Home births
🛁 Birth centre deliveries
✂️ Elective caesareans
🌿 Freebirths
A good doula doesn’t push their preferences—we empower yours.
Curious about virtual doula support?
Want to feel more prepared, less overwhelmed?
Let’s chat. You deserve birth support that’s grounded in evidence, check out my website www.thesmartdoula.com and get in touch for a free 15 minute chat.
