What is a doula?
A doula is a woman who assists other women during childbirth or shortly after childbirth. The word comes from a Greek word for servant. Labor doulas provide prenatal education and support as well as support during labor and delivery. Postpartum doulas help new moms learn to care for their infants.
Why hire a doula?
A doula does not take the place of a caring partner and a knowledgable medical team. Rather a doula complements these team members by providing education prior to labor as well as physical and emotional support throughout labor and delivery.
Research shows that having a doula present in the delivery room reduces the need for Caesarian sections, epidurals, and postpartum depression. More satisfying birth experiences and greater bonding have also been shown to be associated with having a doula present.
A contemporary pediatrician and perinatal scholar has been quoted as saying "If a doula were a drug, it would be malpractice not to use it."