What is a doula?

'Doula' is an ancient Greek word meaning 'with woman' or 'in the service of women'.  Today, it is used to describe a woman experienced in childbirth who provides emotional and practical support to other women during pregnancy, birth, and the postnatal period.  In traditional cultures, women can rely on the help of other female relatives and friends around the time of childbirth, but sadly, this is not always the case in our modern, Western world.  A doula can fill that crucial gap by providing you with unconditional support and respect as you make the transition to motherhood.

During pregnancy, I will work with you to develop an approach to birth that makes you feel safe and fulfilled.  During birth, I can provide comfort measures such as aromatherapy massage, help with positions and relaxation, and, offer verbal encouragement.  I can make sure that your needs are understood by your medical caregivers, and I can also give your partner support and breaks when he needs them.  After birth, I can visit you in your home to provide you with a listening ear, breastfeeding support, and help around the house.  Most importantly, I am there when you need me, offering sympathy and good will as well as an extensive knowledge of the physiology of birth.

Why hire a doula?

You may be interested in doula support because you feel disillusioned by the lack of continuity offered by 'conventional' maternity services.  You may have had a recommendation from a friend, or read about doulas in a magazine.  You may have had a difficult first birth, and are now looking to make your second or subsequent birth a more positive experience.  Every woman is different, and every woman can reap different benefits from the support of a caring female birth companion.

Extensive research into doula support has shown that having a doula during labour can lower a mother's chances of needing drugs and/or surgical interventions, can shorten the average length of labour, can increase satisfaction with the birth experience, can lead to higher rates of continued breastfeeding, and can lower the chances of postnatal depression.