What is a Doula?

A birth Doula is a woman trained and experienced in childbirth who provides continuous physical, emotional and informational support to the mother and her family before, during and just after childbirth.

The word “doula” (DOO-lah) is a Greek word meaning "woman servant" or Handmaiden."
The value of providing laboring women with continuous emotional support, physical comfort, and encouragement has been recognized worldwide.

Given the clear benefits and no known risks associated with intrapartum support, every effort should be made to ensure all laboring women receive support, not only from those close to them but also from specially trained caregivers. This support should include continuous presence, the provision of hands-on comfort, and encouragement.
(resource DONA.org)

Does a doula make decisions on my behalf?

A doula does not make decisions for clients or intervene in their clinical care. She provides informational and emotional support, while respecting a woman’s decisions.

Will a doula make my partner feel unnecessary?

No, a doula is supportive to both the mother and her partner, and plays a crucial role in helping a partner become involved in the birth to the extent he/she feels comfortable.

The Benefits of having a Doula:
Shorten labor by an average of 25%
Reduce the need for a Cesarean section by 50%
Reduce the use of drugs to stimulate labor by 40%
Reduce the need of various intervention by 40%