What Is a Doula?

A doula is a trained professional who provides continuous physical, emotional and informational support to a woman before, during and shortly after childbirth. Unlike medical staff, doulas focus on the personal experience of birth, offering comfort and guidance to help women feel empowered and supported throughout their pregnancy and labour.

Roles and Responsibilities

Doulas assist with relaxation techniques, breathing exercises and pain management strategies. They provide reassurance, advocate for the mother's wishes and help facilitate communication between the mother and healthcare team. Postnatally, doulas may support breastfeeding, newborn care and adjustment to parenthood.

Benefits of Having a Doula

Research shows that the presence of a doula can lead to shorter labours, reduced need for interventions such as epidurals or caesarean sections, and improved satisfaction with the birth experience. Emotional support from a doula can also reduce anxiety and promote confidence.

Who Can Benefit?

Doulas are valuable for all pregnant women, especially first-time mothers or those with anxiety about childbirth. They complement medical care but do not provide clinical services or make medical decisions.

Summary

A doula is a supportive companion who provides continuous emotional and physical assistance during pregnancy, birth and postpartum, helping women have a positive and empowered birth experience.