What is a Doula?
A brief definition would be that we provide informational, physical and emotional support to a woman during her birthing journey. We understand and support the physical and emotional journey of birth.
dou·la (dōō'lə) n. a woman experienced in childbirth who provides information, physical and emotional support to a mother and her family before, during, and after childbirth.
The word doula is a Greek word that means woman’s servant. Women have been serving other women in childbirth for centuries and it has been proven that this support from an experienced woman has positive effects on the labor process. However, a doula’s role is defined by each client and her own personal experience – past and present. Different combinations of support for a client could include:
It’s important to note what a doula does not do. A doula is not medically trained and is not a lay midwife. A doula does not:
Why Hire a Doula?
Doulas - What is a Doula and Why Do so Many Woman Want One?
What is a Doula?
dou·la (dōō'lə) n. a woman experienced in childbirth who provides information, physical and emotional support to a mother and her family before, during, and after childbirth.
The word doula is a Greek word that means woman’s servant. Women have been serving other women in childbirth for centuries and it has been proven that this support from an experienced woman has positive effects on the labor process. However, a doula’s role is defined by each client and her own personal experience – past and present. Different combinations of support for a client could include:
- One mother may place a lot of emphasis on “book knowledge” and we can provide research articles; websites and access to our client library to facilitate learning. By being knowledgable about birth, this mother may feel empowered by the birthing experience as she is able to make more informed decisions about her journey.
- Another mother may be more focussed on her own intuition and may require only a basic understanding of the process of a normal birth with an emphasis on her emotional and spiritual journey as a mother. Affirmations, journaling and positive reinforcement may be the support this mother needs to be confident in herself to birth.
- Some mothers may have previous experiences (or have heard of experiences) that they would like to avoid. By providing this mother with information, options and preparation she will feel more in control of her birthing journey. There may have been interventions that led to the outcomes in the stories that the mother may be able to avoid - just by being more aware of the normal process of birth.
It’s important to note what a doula does not do. A doula is not medically trained and is not a lay midwife. A doula does not:
- perform clinical tasks, such as taking temperatures, blood pressure or internal examinations
- provide medical advice
- replace your health care providers
- make decisions for the parents
- deliver babies
Why Hire a Doula?
Doulas - What is a Doula and Why Do so Many Woman Want One?
What is a Doula?
