What is a doula? chemas-microsoft-com:office:office" />
Doula is a Greek word referring to a woman who is professional trained in the process of childbirth who provides continuous physical and emotional support for a woman before, during and after childbirth.
Why do I need a doula?
Having a baby is very exciting but also overwhelming! A doula can nurture mom into her new role and provide unconditional support during the entire process. Studies have shown that when doulas attend birth, labors are shorter with fewer complications, babies are healthier and they breastfeed more easily.
What about dad?
“At times a father may not understand a woman’s instinctive behavior during childbirth and may react anxiously to what a birth doula knows to be the normal process of birth. He may witness a partner in pain and understandably be distressed.”
“With a doula, a father can share in the birth at a level he feels most comfortable with. The doula’s skills and knowledge can help him to feel more relaxed. If the father want’s to provide physical comfort such as back massage, change of positions, and help his partner to stay focused during contractions, the doula can provide that guidance and make suggestions for what may work best.”
~ DONA: “Dads and Doulas - Key Players on Mother’s Labor Support Team"