What is a Doula?

A doula is a trained professional who provides emotional and physical support to a pregnant person before, during, and after childbirth. The word "doula" comes from a Greek term meaning "a woman who serves." A doula's main focus is to help the birthing person have a positive and empowering birth experience by offering continuous support, guidance, and advocacy.

During the prenatal period, a doula will meet with the expecting parents to get to know them, discuss their birth preferences, and provide education and resources. During labor, a doula will offer comfort measures such as massage, breathing techniques, and position changes to help manage pain and support the birthing person's progress. Doulas can also help facilitate communication between the birthing person and their healthcare providers, ensure that their wishes are respected, and provide emotional support to the birthing person and their partner.

After the birth, a doula can assist with initial breastfeeding and postpartum recovery, as well as provide emotional support and resources for the new family.

Research has shown that having a doula present during childbirth can lead to a range of benefits, including lower rates of interventions like cesarean sections, shorter labors, and increased satisfaction with the birth experience.