What is a Doula? 

 

The word “Doula” comes from the Greek and means

“a woman who serves.” It is now used to refer to the

professional services during the labor, delivery and

postpartum periods. A Doula provides continuous

emotional, physical and informational support to the

mother and her partner.

 

Clinical studies have shown using a Doula results in:

-Shorter labors with fewer complications

-Fewer interventions

-Reduced use of pain medication and epidurals

-Greater success with breastfeeding

-Fewer incidences of postpartum depression

-Greater self-confidence for both parents in adapting to

new family dynamics

 

Why Hire A Doula? 

Women have complex emotional, physical and spiritual needs during childbirth and postpartum and Doulas are trained to meet those needs. A woman’s birth experience is a key event because she will always remember how she was supported during labor. Doulas provide continuous emotional support, physical comfort measures and an objective viewpoint. Doulas can help inform you of your choices and provide you with resources to educate yourself, but they do not make choices for you. A doula’s role is a nurturing one that enables the partner to participate as much as he/she is comfortable. In essence doulas “mother the mother”.

 

What Doulas DON'T do: 

 

Doulas are not medical professionals and do not perform clinical tasks such as cervical checks or fetal monitoring. Doulas do not make medical choices for you. Doulas do not give medical advice or make diagnosis. Doulas are nonjudgmental and do not allow their personal beliefs to interfere with the way they support your beliefs and values. Doulas do not replace the role of the partner. Doulas do not deliver the baby.