What is a Bereavement Doula

And How They Can Help Families in Times of Loss

What is a Bereavement Doula?

The loss of a baby is a tragic event that no parent should have to experience. Sadly, however, it happens more often than we would like to admit. In the midst of this grief and pain, a bereavement doula can provide support, comfort, and guidance to families who are experiencing the loss of a baby.

A bereavement doula is a trained professional who specializes in providing emotional, physical, and informational support to families who have experienced pregnancy or infant loss. They work with families before, during, and after the birth to provide compassionate care and help them navigate the difficult and often confusing process of grief and healing.

Support Before Birth

A bereavement doula can provide support to families before the birth of their baby. This may include helping them prepare for the birth, assisting with planning the funeral or memorial service, or simply being a compassionate listener and offering a safe space to share their emotions and fears.

During the Birth

During the birth, a bereavement doula can provide emotional and physical support to the family. They may help the family with pain management techniques, provide comfort measures, and advocate for the family's wishes during the birth process.

After the Birth

After the birth, a bereavement doula can continue to provide support to the family as they grieve and begin to heal. This may include connecting them with support groups, offering guidance and resources for coping with grief, and being a compassionate listener as they process their emotions.

Why a Bereavement Doula is Important

The loss of a baby is a deeply personal and unique experience, and every family's journey through grief will be different. A bereavement doula provides specialized care and support to help families navigate this difficult time and find their own path to healing.

They can provide a safe and supportive space for families to express their emotions, offer practical and logistical support, and help families create meaningful memories with their baby. The support of a bereavement doula can make a profound difference in the healing process for families who have experienced pregnancy or infant loss.


The loss of a baby is a heartbreaking experience, and families who have experienced this type of loss need compassionate and specialized support. A bereavement doula can provide this support by offering emotional, physical, and informational care to families as they navigate the difficult journey of grief and healing. They are an essential resource for families who have experienced pregnancy or infant loss, and can make a profound difference in the healing process.

Previous
Previous

Preparing for a Natural Birth

Next
Next

Why Babies Shouldn't Self-Soothe