What is a Doula?
The word "doula" comes from the ancient Greek language meaning "woman servant." A doula is a woman specifically trained to give compassionate and emotional support in labor by being highly sensitive and responsive to the laboring woman and aware of her needs, moods, changes and unspoken feelings.
The doula also provides continuous care and comfort measures to women and their partners during labor and birth. She does not detract from the role of the baby's father or co-parent. She enhances the experience and leaves the partner free to do the very important job of loving the mother.
A doula serves as a nonjudgmental advocate, facilitating communication between medical staff and the laboring family. She educates with objective viewpoints and informational alternatives (risk vs. benefit). She assists in creating a safe, supportive environment, as well as giving encouragement and reassurance.
Research has shown that the presence of a doula makes an important contribution to the improved physical outcomes and emotional well-being of families and their newborn.
