What is a Doula?

A "Doula" is a woman trained to give professional labor support. They are used like a personal coach, helping women prepare to giving birth. They are also present at the actual birth and coach the woman through the labor and delivery process. If you are nervous about giving birth, then this could be a perfect solution for you. Having a someone who is certified and trained at your side may be exactly what you need to help you through the birthing process. She can give you the neccessary guidence and assurance you need through each step of labor and the encouragement to help you achieve the birth you want.

Why are they called "doulas"?
This funny word comes from the Greeks and literally means "woman who serves". She is trained to serve a woman in labor. She offers physical and emotional support continuously and providers the mother-to-be with information as needed to help the woman have a positive birth experience. She is your own personal pillar of strength.

"Why would I use one?"
Her whole focus is on the laboring woman. That is what she is there for. She is not like the doctor who has how many other patients on his or her mind. She is not like the typical labor coach, a friend or partner, who is there for you but may not know how to help you. She is a trained, certified, experience labor support professional. This is what she does...support women who are in labor.

She knows that the birth experience has a great impact on a woman and her goal is to help you have a good experience. She is there to help you carry out the goals and desires you have for your birth. She is a medium of communication, helping you, your partner, and the medical staff communicate effectively while minimizing strain and confusion. She allows you and your partner to relax and focus on the reason you are there...the birth. She is also very useful when you have a partner who is not entirely comfortable with birth. If they are squeamish or nervous she is there to help them participate at whatever level is comfortable while still giving you the support you need.

Some Benefits
In the presence of a trained labor support professional, women tend to have shorter labors, less complications, and less need for medical intervention and pain medication. They show greater self-confidence and adjust to mothering more easily. The needs of a laboring woman are complex and individualized. A doula is there to provide for those needs.

Having a doula is not a necessity, but it is sure nice to have one more person fighting on you side! The more support you have the better your chances for the birth you want!

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