What is a Doula?

 'Doula' is greek for female caregiver. She is a trained birth companion (often a mother herself), who has a positive experience and outlook on birth and who provides continuous support during pregnancy, labour, birth and beyond. Mothering the mother. She can empower the mother and partner to make informed decisions about their birth plan and choices during the pregnancy and birth.

What difference does having a doula make? (+ see parents feedback)

Research shows that the benefits of having a trained Doula are a: 50% reduction in the caesarean rate 60% reduction in epidural 40% reduction in forceps delivery 40% reduction in oxytocin use 25% shorter labour

What is the added benefit of having a doula when you have a midwife?

A doula is personally chosen by the mother during pregnancy, because the doula makes her feel safe and more confident about giving birth. They are able to get to know one another before the birth and the doula is on hand to support the mother from the time she is appointed. Doulas are also able to stay with you from the time you call them in labour, until after the baby is born, so you do not need to worry about shift changes, or the length of your labour. The Cochrane Medical Review found that continuous suppport is more effective when the person providing it is not part of the hospital staff, rather than when it is provided by staff members such as nurses or midwives.

What about my partner?

A doula does not replace your partner, (or your midwife/consultant). She is part of the team that supports you, along with your medical care-givers. Studies show that having a doula actually increases the father/partner’s positive participation in the birth rather than decreases it, as the partner feels less under pressure, more confident and can focus entirely on supporting mother in a calm rather than sometimes anxious and powerless way.