What is a Doula?
I'm often asked "what is a doula?" Considering you've made it here you may already know what a doula is. For those of you that are new to the concept please allow me to explain.
The word Doula is an ancient Greek word meaning "women’s servant". In more modern terms "Doula" describes a women who is trained as a professional birth and postnatal support person.
As recognised by the World Health Organisation and data taken from various medical and cultural studies from around the world, the benefits of having an experienced, trained support person can:
Shorten the length of labour by 25%
Reduce the possibility of caesarean section by 51%
Reduction in analgesia (epidurals) by 35%
Reduction in use of forceps by 57%
Reduction in oxytocin augmentation (drips to speed up or begin labour) by 71%
Studies have shown that mothers who use a birth attendant/doula have a lower incidence of postnatal depression and have an overall feeling of empowerment. They are more likely to achieve their breastfeeding goals and are more closely bonded with their babies, due to less birth trauma.
As a birth doula, I recognise childbirth as a key life experience that you and your partner will remember throughout your lives. I'm dedicated to helping you make these memories as wonderful as possible, by supporting you to meet your goals and manifest your dreams.
Doulas understand the physiology of birth and the emotional needs of women in labour. Doulas assist women and their partners in preparing for and carrying out their plans for the birth. Offering emotional support, physical comfort measures and an objective viewpoint, as well as helping women and their partners get the information they need to make informed decisions.
Doulas understand the protocol of the hospitals they work in and can help you to navigate different situations.
Doulas are not medically trained, therefore all medical decisions and responsibility must be made by the birthing couple.
This is a great article on what is a doula.
“I recognize childbirth as a key life experience that you and your partner will remember throughout your lives”
