What is a doula?   'Doula' is an ancient Greek word meaning 'with women' 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 world.  A doula can fill that crucial gap by providing you with consistent counsel and compassion 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 verbal encouragement.  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 and practical support.  Most importantly, I am there for you when you need me, offering sympathy and humour as well as an extensive knowledge of the physiology of birth.   Why hire a doula?   You may be looking for a doula because you feel disillusioned by 'conventional' maternity services.  Perhaps you have had a recommendation from a friend, or you just feel like you and your partner could do with some extra support.  Or perhaps you're interested in finding someone who can help you feel as physically and emotionally ready for birth as possible.  Every woman is different, and every woman will reap different benefits from doula support.   Dr. Marshall Klaus, Dr. Phyllis Klaus, and Dr. John Kennell have done extensive international research into the benefits of doula support, and their findings have conclusively proven that having a doula present at birth can:   Lower the rate of surgical interventions (i.e. forceps and caesarean section deliveries) Lower the mother's need for analgesic pain relief Shorten the average length of labour Increase mother and baby bonding Increase mother's satisfaction with the birth experience Lower the rate of postnatal depression