What is a Doula?

A Doula

The role of the birth doula encompasses the non-clinical aspects of care during childbirth. A doula is a trained and experienced professional who provides continuous physical, emotional and informational support to the mother before, during and just after birth.

Childbirth is a natural process but it is important that a woman receives consistent unconditional reassurance, comfort, encouragement and respect.

A doula is sensitive to the changing needs that occur through each stage of labor. I believe one of the main positive contributing factors of having a Doula is that they are there for you, completely and consistently, throughout the whole experience.

A doula can encourage and assist in providing communication between family members and health care providers. They are able to share their knowledge and experience of the birthing process to provide an overall satisfying experience for the mother and all who are involved.

Studies have shown that when doulas attend birth, labors are shorter with reduced rates of cesarean, pain medication use, and other interventions.