Doula is an ancient Greek word that means "woman's servant." Doulas are
trained and experienced in childbirth. They provide physical comfort and emotional
support to the mother before, during and just after childbirth. However, they
don't provide medical assistance or deliver babies.
Doulas "mother the mother" by offering assistance and by making sure the
needs and concerns of the mother and father are met during labor and delivery.
They enhance the birth experience and work in cooperation with doctors, midwives,
nurses, family and the woman's partner. They can be found in many settings,
including hospitals, homes and birth centers.
To say this field is female-dominated would be an understatement.
Benefits of having a trained doula include a 50 percent reduction in the
Cesarean rate and a 25 percent shorter labor, according to Mothering the Mother:
How a Doula Can Help You Have a Shorter, Easier and Healthier Birth.
There's no typical day for a doula -- the schedule is determined solely
by the rhythm of each individual labor and delivery. Mother and doula first
meet and discuss expectations for the birth. Once labor begins, a doula is
with the mother until the birth takes place.
Postpartum doulas support the mother and the mother's partner after the
birth.