Doulas in TV and Movies: Fiction vs. Reality

Doulas are becoming more well-known in the birthing world, but their portrayal in TV shows and movies is often exaggerated, comedic, or just plain inaccurate. While it’s great that birth workers are gaining recognition in pop culture, these portrayals can create misunderstandings about what doulas actually do.

Let’s take a look at some famous (and sometimes infamous) doulas in TV and movies and how they compare to real-life birth support.

TV & Movie Doulas: Fiction vs. Reality

1. The Quirky, Crunchy Doula

Example: Gilmore Girls (Season 7, 2006-2007) – Sookie’s Doula

Sookie, played by Melissa McCarthy, hires a doula who is the perfect example of the “over-the-top crunchy” stereotype. The doula is obsessed with everything natural and organic, takes charge of Sookie’s birth experience, and even makes her husband, Jackson, feel like he’s not needed.

Reality: A professional doula supports your choices, whether you want an unmedicated home birth or an epidural in a hospital. We never take over or replace partners but instead help them feel more involved. Our goal is to empower families, not control them!

2. The Comedic Relief Doula

Example: The Back-Up Plan (2010)

Jennifer Lopez’s character, Zoe, attends a childbirth class led by an eccentric instructor who takes holistic birth prep to the extreme. While this isn’t exactly a doula, the scene plays into the stereotype that all birth workers are bizarre and pushy, making expectant parents uncomfortable.

Reality: While doulas may incorporate relaxation techniques and mindfulness, we are trained professionals who adapt to each client’s preferences. We provide practical, evidence-based support—not just quirky rituals and awkward energy.

3. The Mysterious, Almost Magical Doula

Example: Baby Mama (2008)

Tina Fey’s character hires a doula (played by Siobhan Fallon Hogan) who is completely out of touch—talking about spiritual energy, chanting, and making everyone uncomfortable. This portrayal makes doulas seem mystical rather than practical.

Reality: While some doulas do incorporate spiritual or holistic elements if requested, we primarily provide emotional, physical, and informational support. We are trained to help you navigate labor, advocate for your choices, and offer hands-on comfort—not just talk about birth energy and disappear.

4. The One-Time, Delivery-Room-Only Doula

Example: Jane the Virgin (2014-2019)

Jane is deeply passionate about having a natural birth and does extensive research. However, the show does not accurately portray the role of a doula—her labor experience is dramatic and intense, but we don’t see continuous doula support throughout her pregnancy or postpartum recovery.

Reality: Doulas don’t just show up at the last minute. We support families throughout pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. We help parents prepare with education, process emotions, and feel empowered before labor even begins.

5. The Doula Who Takes Over

Example: Gilmore Girls (Again!)

Not only is Sookie’s doula portrayed as pushy and controlling, but she also dominates the entire experience. Jackson, the father, is sidelined and made to feel like an outsider, reinforcing the idea that doulas replace partners.

Reality: Doulas do not replace partners—we enhance their role! We encourage partners to be as involved as they feel comfortable, offering guidance on how they can best support the birthing person. Our goal is to create a positive, inclusive birth experience.

Why Accurate Representation Matters

When doulas are misrepresented in media, parents might assume we are only for certain types of births (like home births) or that we are unnecessary in a hospital setting. In reality, doulas are for everyone, whether you’re planning an unmedicated birth, an epidural, or a scheduled cesarean.

• If Hollywood wants to get doulas right, they should showcase:

• How we provide continuous support before, during, and after birth.

• How we offer evidence-based information without pushing personal agendas.

• How we work alongside doctors and nurses, not against them.

Final Thoughts

While doulas in TV and movies often provide laughs or drama, in real life, we are a steady, knowledgeable, and compassionate presence during one of life’s most transformative experiences. If you want real, continuous, and empowering support for your birth, let’s connect!