What is a Doula?

"Doula" translates literally from ancient Greek to mean "woman's servant." She provides continuous physical, emotional, and informational support to the mother and her family during labor, delivery and in the immediate postpartum period.

Numerous studies revealed having a labor support person:

results in shorter labors with fewer complications
reduces negative feelings about one's childbirth experience
lessens the need for medical interventions (forceps, pitocin, vacuum extraction)
lowers the mother's request for pain medication and/or epidurals

It has also been shown that parents:

feel more prepared and secure
better adapt to the experience
have less difficulty breast feeding
feel more self-confidence
experience less postpartum depression

When hiring any labor support person, be sure to conduct a thorough interview. The initial consultation can take place over the phone, but be sure to interview your favorite candidates in person. Make sure that your choice is a good match for your family and personality. Here are some sample topics to cover:

training and education
philosophy of childbirth
location of services
role in labor
role in prenatal period
role in postpartum care
contact availability
references
fees
services provided
refund policy
backup plans

Her role may not end at birth. In some instances, she may be available to help with postpartum care for you and your baby, including family care such as preparing meals or even watching the baby at night to allow the mother some much-needed rest.

For more information or to locate a doula in your area, contact DONA International or browse our Provider Directory.

References

Hodnett ED. Continuity of caregivers for care during pregnancy and childbirth. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2000, Issue 1. Art. No.: CD000062. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD000062.

Hodnett ED, Gates S, Hofmeyr GJ, Sakala C. Continuous support for women during childbirth. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2007, Issue 3. Art. No.: CD003766. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD003766.pub2.

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