What's a Doula?

The word “doula” comes from the Greek meaning of “a woman’s servant”.

A doula is a person whose sole purpose is to support a woman on the cusp of motherhood in every way. Before, during, and after labor, your doula will provide you with emotional, physical and informational support and encouragement.

Your doula understands that your birth is an incredible experience that will shape your life profoundly. S(he) understands your needs during labor and will help prepare and carry out your birth desires. Your doula will stay with you continuously throughout labor, will provide physical and emotional support, and offer constructive information in order to help you make informed decisions before, during, and after your birth. S(he) will help you communicate your desires to your partner, family, or medical staff. S(he) will always allow and help facilitate participation from your partner or family members during your labor. A doula will never try to replace those most important to you. Your doula’s first interest is to nurture and support you during this incredibly important journey towards motherhood.

Here are some proven statistics on the benefits of having a doula present at your birth:

50% reduction in the cesarean rate

25% shorter labor

60% reduction in epidural requests

40% reduction in oxytocin use

30% reduction in analgesia use

40% reduction in forceps delivery