The word doula comes from the ancient Greek language. The literal meaning of doula is “slave/servant”. A doula is a woman that gives emotional, physical and educational support throughout pregnancy, birth and postpartum.

A birth doula does not replace the role of your partner. She is to assist and support you and your partner in achieving your desired birth. Though the doula remains focused on the mother’s needs, she works closely with your partner & encourages him or her during labor and delivery.

A doula will be with you if a cesarean is needed - planned or unplanned. Depending on the hospital, the doula can also accompany you and your partner in the operating room. She will be there for you in recovery to assist with any postpartum needs such as breastfeeding and emotional support.

Most mothers are encouraged to stay at home in early labor. Your doula will come to your home when you feel that you need the support.

Yes. A doula is there to support you, regardless of how you and your partner desire to give birth. Some women choose to have medication as soon as possible, while others choose to have none.

A doula does not perform any medical tasks. She is solely there for comfort and encouragement. However, she is knowledgeable in both pregnancy and childbirth and will share her knowledge while encouraging you to research your options.

A doula will provide you with her own knowledge and experience of birth. She will not speak for you. However, she will encourage you to find confidence in using your own voice.

A doula will be apart of your birth team. She will not take the place of any health care provider but may act as a liaison with the medical staff. Your primary care providers are there for your medical health needs and for the baby. A doula will be there for your non-medical needs.

No, doulas are hired privately. They work for you regardless of your chosen primary care provider.

A doula can improve breastfeeding. She can decrease postpartum depression and can also help support the first hours of mother-infant bonding.

Studies show that having a doula present will:

• decrease the use of an epidural by 60%
• decrease cesarean sections by 50%
• decrease the use of pitocin by 40%
• decrease the use of pain medications (narcotics) by 30%
• decrease the use of forceps by 30%

(Mothering the Mother, by MH Klaus, JH Kennell, and PH Klaus; Addision Wesley Publishing Company, 1993)