Jun 5, 2025
As doulas, when it comes to communication, what we say and how
it’s heard are not always the same.
Words shape how clients feel, respond, and make decisions. Asking
questions that begin with "why" can unintentionally sound like
judgment, even when your intent is neutral or supportive. Doulas
often believe that it’s our job to make sure clients are making
informed choices. In truth, our responsibility is to our clients,
not for them.
It is not our role or responsibility to decide what a client wants
or needs to know. But doulas often offer information without asking
what the client wants to know or inquiring in a non-judgmental way
how they came to a decision, especially surrounding topics like
induction or elective cesareans.
This episode unpacks the critical difference between what we mean
and how our words are interpreted. If you want to strengthen your
communication, reduce misunderstandings, and support clients with
more clarity and compassion.