What is a Doula and why do I need one?

By your side for the journey

A Doula, pronounced “doo la”, is also known as a birth companion and originates from the Ancient Greek word to mean female servant or slave.

The modern definition: a trained, non-medical companion who provides emotional, physical, and educational support to a mother / birthing person before, during and after birth. The doula's purpose is to help women have a safe, memorable, and empowering birthing experience.

They provide continuous support during labour and there is evidence associated with improved maternal and foetal health and a variety of other benefits such as a calmer birth and positive impact on mental health.

Doulas have no clinical role, duties or decision making.

"If a doula was a drug it would be unethical not to use it"

- Dr. John H. Kennell

Photo by Jonathan Borba on Unsplash