What is a Doula?

A doula is a trained and experienced professional who provides continuous physical, emotional, and informational support to parents before, during and just after the birth; or who provides emotional and practical support during the prenatal and/or postpartum period.

Why have a Birth Doula?

According to DONA International's website (dona.org), studies have shown that when doulas attend births, labors are shorter with fewer complications, babies are healthier, and they breastfeed more easily.

What Does a Doula do?

• Recognizes birth as a key experience the parent(s) will always remember

• Understands the physiology of birth and the emotional needs of a person in labor

• Assists the parent(s) in preparing for and carrying out her plans for birth

• Provides emotional support, physical comfort measures and an objective viewpoint, as well as helping the parent(s) get the information they need to make informed decisions

• Facilitates communication between the laboring person, partner and clinical care providers

• Perceives her role as nurturing and protecting the parent’s memory of the birth experience

• Allows the partner to participate at their comfort level