Please note: At this time I am unable to take any
clients. I will be happy to help you find a doula that will be suitable
to your needs. Also, if you are interested in working with a
doula-in-training, I will be happy to refer you to some of my most
recent trainees.
What IS a doula anyway?
The word "doula" comes from the Greek word for "female slave" and refers to the slave that held the highest position in the household and often attended the lady of the house during her deliveries. Today, the term doula refers to a professional labor assistant. There are several things that every doula does. These include: attends mom's labor and delivery; answers questions for mom and coach; supports mom and coach emotionally and physically with comfort techniques, labor positions, etc.; promotes self-advocacy in mom. Some doulas will also take pictures at the time of delivery, help with your first breastfeeding, offer both prenatal and postpartum visits, write a birth story, etc. She is an important addition to any birthing team.
What doesn't a doula do?
A doula does not perform medical procedures, give medical advice, make decisions for you, deliver the baby, take the place of coach, or impose her own beliefs or desires on your birth experience.
Why use a doula?
Once you know what kind of birth is right for you (see "Why Childbirth Education?"), a doula (also known as a birth assistant or labor assistant) can help you make it a reality. While no one can predict exactly what will happen during the process of birth, a doula will provide continual support, comfort, and information about your birth options to both you and your partner.
Studies have shown that women supported by a doula during labor not only have a more positive birth experience, but they also experience:
- 50% reduction in c-section rate
- 25% shorter labor
- 60% reduction in epidural requests
- 40% reduction in Pitocin use
- 30% reduction in analgesia use
- 40% reduction in instrumental deliveries
(Information obtained from The Doula Book by Klaus, Kennell and Klaus (1993))
Finding a doula
I recommend that you talk to at least a couple of doulas before deciding on which one to hire. This will ensure that you find a good fit for you. It's vital that you are comfortable with your doula as she will be with you throughout the duration of your labor. Click here for a list of doula websites.