What is a Birth Doula?
What can a doula do for you during labour, pregnancy and afterwards? As a recognised Doula UK doula, I have my own idea of what a doula can do, here I give an overview that gives you an idea for your onward research. Birth doulas are not a new invention; women supporting mothers in the birth room have been around since humans began.
““I do not care what kind of birth you have...a homebirth, scheduled cesarean, epidural hospital birth, or if you birth alone in the woods next to baby deer. I care that you had options, that you were supported in your choices, and that you were respected.””
A Birth Doula is...
an advocate for you and your family
educational preparation - on physiology, interventions during or prior to labour, newborn behaviour, etc.
emotional support - for you, and your family, helping with relaxation and breathing techniques
physical support - prior to and during labour, providing massage, making sure you eat and drink enough, suggesting and supporting different labouring positions
non-judgmental - there is no right way to give birth. There are right ways for you.
A Birth Doula is not...
a midwife
a primary care provider
someone to make decisions for you and your family
going to judge you on your choices
professionally biased towards any type of birth or parenting
