The Power of Presence: A Doula Day in the OR

LaTrisha
Dec 7
2 min read

As a birth doula, I had the privilege of being in the operating room at University of Michigan Health - Sparrow, an experience that was deeply meaningful. This reaffirmed just how valuable it is to have consistent, compassionate support in every birthing space, especially caesareans. Before the procedure, I

checked in with the surgeon and the anesthesia team to confirm my role. Katie from anesthesia was especially kind and welcoming. She even located a comfortable chair so I could sit beside the dad, which helped me remain present and supportive throughout the birth.

There was a moment during the procedure, everything shifted – the baby needed to be taken to the NICU, and the dad had to leave the operating room to advocate for the baby. That’s when my presence became even more essential. I felt the importance of being a calming presence for mom while things shifted so suddenly. I stayed with mom as the surgical team continued, and I focused on holding space for her in every way she needed. I stayed close, held her hand, and gently reassured her that everything was okay. I reminded her that she wasn’t alone. Sometimes I was silent – just present. In a room full of quick movements and medical tasks, my focus was to anchor her emotionally – to make sure mom felt seen, heard, and supported in one of the most vulnerable moments of her life. It was a powerful reminder of how unpredictable these moments can be – and the importance of a doula’s presence in this space.

Having a familiar face in the OR, someone who knows the birth plan, understands her preferences, and can serve as a safe space can be a lifeline. That’s what it means to hold space for moms. Not to fix or direct, but to protect the emotional landscape of the birthing person when everything around her is unfamiliar and out of her control. I’m grateful I could be there for mom.

One thing that struck me after the birth was how everything aligned in such a meaningful way. Just two weeks earlier, I had completed my OR training alongside labor & delivery staff at this very hospital with Rachel, Jennifer & Cheryl. The training gave me the insight and confidence to move through the space respectfully and effectively knowing what to expect and how to collaborate with the medical team. I felt like everything had worked in his favor – the timing, the preparation, the connections.

It is vital for hospitals to embrace the role of doulas, even in clinical environments like the OR. Our presence complements the medical care team. We’re not there to interfere – we’re there to care, to attune, and to advocate in ways no one else can. Doulas are not only for “ideal” birth scenarios. We’re needed everywhere birth happens – especially where it feels most unexpected.

Experiences like this one only deepen my belief that doulas are not a luxury – they are essential, even in the OR.