The word “doula” comes from the ancient Greek meaning “a woman who serves” and is now used to refer to a trained and experienced professional who provides continuous physical, emotional and informational support to the mother before, during and just after birth; or who provides emotional and practical support during the postpartum period.
Studies have shown that when doulas attend births, labours are shorter with fewer complications, babies are healthier and they breastfeed more easily.
What is a Doula?
A doula does provide continuous emotional, physical and informational support
for pregnant women and their families.
A doula does not speak or make decisions for the mother.
A doula does understand the physiology of birth and the emotional needs of a woman in labour.
A doula does not perform clinical skills such as dilation checks, fetal heart assessments, etc.
A doula does assist women in finding reliable, evidence-based information.
A doula does not offer medical advice or opinions.
A doula does recognize birth as a key experience in a woman’s life.
A doula does not dictate where or how birth happens.
A doula does encourage the woman’s partner to participate at his/her comfort level.
Doula Do’s and Don’ts
Welcome
It’s normal to feel scared when you think of giving birth. A doula is someone that wants to hear about your worries. She can help you and your partner prepare for your journey as parents. Your birth is important to your doula. She is a source of “woman to woman” support and is available to you whenever you need her. Birth memories last a lifetime - a doula can help make your memories positive ones.
