What is a Doula?

     A birth doula is someone who offers emotional, mental, and physical support to a labouring woman.  The word 'doula' is actually Greek, and means a woman slave, so being someone's doula is serving them in whatever way they need.  As your doula, I am someone you can meet with and bounce thoughts and ideas off prenatally, and will be available to you from the onset of labour, helping you in whatever way I can.

The following link helps clear up some of the myths associated with doulas and what we do:  Doula Myths

     The training a doula receives is specific to childbirth, and gives me the resources to help you cope with pregnancy, labour and the early postpartum period in ways that really work for you.  This means providing physical help and comfort measures to the labouring woman, as well as relieving a tired partner, getting food for the Mum or her partner, being a sounding board during challenging situations in labour, and listening, when the couple need to talk. The doula is part of the labour support team, and does not take over for the partner, but is a support for the labouring couple as a whole. 
     A doula can also help with initial breastfeeding, and help answer the concerns about early lactation.  Breastfeeding your child can be a daunting idea, but with some guidance, it can be immensely rewarding, and incredibly beneficial for the mother and baby.

     Statistics show that having a doula can greatly increase the likelihood of a positive birth experience.  The results of several studies show that the attendance of a doula during labour results in a:*

• 50% reduction in the cesarean rate
• 25% shorter labor
• 60% reduction in epidural requests
• 40% reduction in pitocin use
• 30% reduction in analgesia use
• 40% reduction in forceps delivery

This can greatly ease the minds of pregnant women and their partners.  I hope that I can be of service to you on your journey through pregnancy, childbirth, and bonding with your new baby.



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