Best Birth Experience

“Doula” is a Greek word meaning “a woman who serves”

Doula is now used to refer to an experienced and trained woman who offers emotional and practical support and information to a woman (or couple) before, during and after childbirth.

When the mother goes into labour she contacts her doula and informs her when she would like the doula to join her, at home or at hospital.

A doula will usually meet with the family several times during the pregnancy, building a strong, trusting relationship. The doula listens to the parents and helps them to seek out relevant information so that they can make informed choices about childbirth and childcare.

What is a doula?

A doula is a non-medical birth partner.

Doulas get to know the mother and father during pregnancy, developing a relationship in which she is able to offer support during labour and the birth of their baby.

Doulas observe and respond to a mother's needs and wishes during labour and can offer reassurance and wide range of comfort measures including massage and hypnotherapy.

Doulas remain with the mother throughout the labour ensuring she is not left alone.

Doulas work closely with the baby's father to support, reassure and encourage him in his role.

Doulas are not medical staff

The doula is not a medical professional she is not there to support the mother in a clinical role - that is the job of the medical staff.

Doulas are available to provide sources of information and support to parents when making decisions.

Just what has research shown? When you have a doula at the birth . . .

You lower your risk of having a cesarean section,forceps delivery, or episiotomy.

Your ability to cope with the pain improves, decreasing the possibility of needing pain medication.

Your labour is likely to be shorter.

Research also shows that when you have a doula at your birth....

Your relationship with your partner is likely to grow stronger.

You are more likely to succeed with breastfeeding your newborn.

You are more likely to be confident in your mothering skills.

You are more likely to view the birth experience in positive terms.

You are more likely to see your body as strong and capable.