A Birth Doula is a woman trained to provide physical and emotional comfort to a woman during childbirth. The word “doula” is a Greek word meaning servant or helper.

What does a Birth Doula do?

She uses her knowledge and experience to explain what is happening during each stage of childbirth; she uses her voice to coach and offer reassurance; she uses her hands to massage and stroke the laboring woman, achieving relaxation.

Who needs a Birth Doula?

Medical studies have shown that women with supportive labor companions have better outcomes, shorter labors and need less pain medication than women who labor alone.

But what if my husband is my labor coach?

Every woman in labor can benefit from experienced labor support. A woman’s husband or partner may not have any experience with childbirth. A Birth Doula can help the woman’s partner be an effective and compassionate labor coach. The Birth Doula helps the couple work together as a team.

Won’t my doctor and the nurses help me through labor?

Of course. A Birth Doula cannot replace expert medical care. A Birth Doula’s first concern is your comfort and reassurance. Nurses change shifts and doctors have many responsibilities. Your Birth Doula is there beside you for the entire duration of your labor in the hospital.

Will my hospital permit me to have an extra support person?

Most hospitals will. It’s always a good idea to check with your doctor and hospital first.

I would like as little pain medication as possible. Will a Birth Doula help me?

Yes. She can help you manage discomfort and pain with whatever works for you: massage, position, breathing techniques, visualization, and relaxation. She will offer explanations and reassurance regarding the progress of labor. Studies have shown that Birth Doulas reduce the need for pain medication.

I’m planning to have an epidural. Why would I need a Birth Doula?

With an epidural, you will have less need for comfort measures during the end of your labor. However most doctors wait until labor is well-established before beginning an epidural. A Birth Doula can help with the discomfort of early labor.