What is a Doula?

"Doula" (pronounced "doola") is a Greek word meaning "woman servant or caregiver".
It refers to an experienced woman, normaly one who has had children herself, who provides continuous emotional and practical support, educational resources and comfort measures delivered in a warm, sensitive and caring way, before, during and after childbirth.

During labour, she offers continuity of care, encouragement, reassurance, comfort and calming measures, physical contact and explanations about progress.
She works with a woman/couple to develop and achieve their birth preferences. A Doula also helps to encourage, advise and support the birthing companion so they can become more involved - rather than replacing this critical role.

A doula enables a woman to have the most satisfying and empowered time that she can during pregnancy, birth and the early days as a new mother. This type of support also helps the whole family to relax and enjoy this special experience.

Build confidence in your natural abilities.
0ffer continuous support throughout labour and child birth no matter how long. Supporting your choices however you chose to birth.

The support of a Doula has a positive effect on the birth outcome during pregnancy and birthing and has been shown in a number of studies.

Findings of Hodnett’s et al meta-analysis of 15 trials from N. America, Europe, and Africa(10) Women cared for during labor by a birth doula, compared to those receiving usual care were:
Additional benifits include:
- Shortens first-time labour by an average of 2 hours
- Better breastfeeding outcomes
- Increase in mother/infant interaction
- Decrease in post-partum depression and anxiety
- A higher self esteem.