What is a Doula Monitrice?
Have you ever heard of a “Monitrice”? A monitrice is the French word for “monitor” or “guide” and usually refers to a birth professional who is a midwife that attends planned hospital births in a support role. She goes beyond the typical doula role in providing informational, physical and emotional support as well as providing limited clinical assessments. A doula monitrice is someone who blends midwifery and doula care into one package. They are not your primary care provider, that role typically belongs with an OBGYN for those hiring a monitrice.
The work starts prior to birth with 1-2 hour long visits to get to know you and your birth preferences. Additionally, a doula monitrice prenatal visit usually includes palpating the pregnant persons belly for fetal position, listening to baby and reviewing holistic ways to stay healthy including nutrition, exercise and mindset. They offer extensive individualized care and provide a unique style of care bridging the gap with hospital care.
During labor they often join you at home prior to arriving at the hospital. They can provide both doula support and labor assessments. This is a perfect combo for a laboring person who does not want to arrive to the hospital in early labor or simply would like some reassurance that all is well with baby while they labor at home. Once you are ready to head to the hospital, they will head there too and continue providing support in a doula only role until you give birth.
During the postpartum period they will typically meet with you in your home at least one or two times to review your birth and provide early support. Birth processing, lactation support, newborn care support, new mother care and emotional support are all included. They are aware of warning signs in the postpartum period and can help provide early resources if there are any problems that arise during this tender time. All in all doula monitrices are a rare specialty but if you are lucky enough to have one, they can make all the difference. Not your average doula and not your average midwife!
