What is a Doula?
A doula is a support person (other than a partner) that provides informational, physical and emotional support before, during and shortly after childbirth.
This kind of support often includes education on the process of labor and birth, physical comfort techniques such as massage, counter pressure and positioning guidance, emotional support and more!
Studies have shown that having a doula increases the likelihood of a satisfying birth experiences while reducing the rate of medical interventions (including cesarean births)
This kind of support often includes education on the process of labor and birth, physical comfort techniques such as massage, counter pressure and positioning guidance, emotional support and more!
Studies have shown that having a doula increases the likelihood of a satisfying birth experiences while reducing the rate of medical interventions (including cesarean births)
What does a doula NOT do?
A doula is not a medical professional, and therefore does not provide medical care of any kind. Doulas do not preform vaginal/cervical exams, provide maternal/fetal monitoring, diagnose or treat conditions or provide medication management. Doulas do not make decisions (medical or otherwise) on behalf of a client.
Are doulas only for people who want "all natural" births?
Not at all. Doulas attend all types of births, from home births to planned C-sections! A doula can provide invaluable support to you and your partner no matter what type of birth you plan to have!