The Greek word for Doula means woman caregiver. We now use the word to describe a trained and experienced labour companion. The birth doula provides the woman and her husband or partner continuous emotional support, physical comfort and assistance in obtaining information before during and just after childbirth.
"The acceptance of doulas in maternity care is growing rapidly with the recognition of their important contribution to the improved physical outcomes and emotional well being of mothers and infants."
(Dona Birth Workshop Manual)
A Birth Doula:
*Recognizes birth is a key experience that the mother will remember all her life
* Understands the physiology of birth and the emotional needs of a woman in labour
* Assists the woman and her partner in preparing for and carrying out their plans for the birth
* Stays by the side of the labouring woman and throughout the entire labour
* Provides emotional support, physical comfort measures, an objective view point and assistance to obtain the information they need to make good decisions
* Facilitates communication between the labouring woman, her partner and clinical care providers
* Precieves her role as one who nurtures and protects the woman's memory of her birth experience
A DOULA DOES NOT
* Preform any clinical tasks
(Examples: blood pressure, fetal heart checks, vaginal exams)
*Make decisions for you
*Speak to the staff on your behalf
A DOULA CAN
*Gather the information necessary for you to make an informed decision
*Discuss your concerns with you and suggest options
My Goal is to create a comfortable and trustworthy working relationship by providing:
Emotional Support - encouragement, reassurance, a continuous physical presence
Physical Support - positioning, massage, breathing, relaxation, non-pharmacological comfort measures
Educate- gathering information, being made aware of the stages of your labour and your options, explanations and non-medical advice
Being your advocate
Encourage partners to have an active role in your labour
