What is a doula?

A doula is a non-medical professional trained to support an individual and partner through pregnancy, birth and postpartum. Doulas provide physical, emotional, and informational support. A doula will advocate for the birthing woman to have the right to make informed decisions about her body and baby. While the doula does not speak to the medical staff on behalf of the mother, they provide a platform for the specific wishes to be heard.

What a doula is not?

A Doula is not a medical professional, although doulas usually have a lot of experience with birth. A doula does not give medical advice, but will help you ask the right questions. A doula does not perform medical procedures. A doula does not make any decisions on your behalf, but will help you understand your options. A doula does not communicate your preferences to your birth team, but will help you communicate them.

What are the benefits of a doula?

• 25% decrease in the risk of Cesarean; the largest effect was seen with a doula (39% decrease)*

• 8% increase in the likelihood of a spontaneous vaginal birth; the largest effect was seen with a doula (15% increase)*

• 10% decrease in the use of any medications for pain relief

• 31% decrease in the risk of being dissatisfied with the birth experience; mothers’ risk of being dissatisfied with the birth experience was reduced with continuous support provided by a doula

  Read more here: Evidence for Doulas