What is a Doula?

A Doula, or “Woman Servant,” is a modern profession stemmed from an ancient practice of women supporting women in childbirth. They provide physical, emotional, and informational support to the mom and their partner(s) in an effort to help achieve a satisfying birth experience, as defined by the parents. A Doula can support the laboring mother with suggestions and techniques for relaxation, comfort measures, breathing, positions, reassurance, counter-pressure, and massage. They also help you prepare your birth plan, provide information to help you make informed decisions, and act as your advocate for your desired birth. Studies have shown that by having the continuous support of a Doula during labor*:

• Labors are shorter
• There are fewer complications
• Cesarean Rates are reduced
• There is less need for oxytocin to speed up labor
• The need for forceps is reduced
• Women request less pain medication and epidurals
• Mothers have greater satisfaction with their birth experience; more positive assessments with their babies; and less postpartum depression.
• Babies have shorter hospital stays with fewer admissions to special care nurseries; they breastfeed more easily; and mothers are more affectionate to their babies postpartum.

* http://www.dona.org/PDF/EffectsofBirthDoula.pdf
Reprinted by permission from Doulas of North America (DONA)

To view the DONA Birth Doula Position Paper visit: http://www.dona.org/PDF/BDPositionPaper.pdf