Doulas are professionally trained labour and birth support people who provide assistance to pregnant mothers and their partners.

During pregnancy

The choices and plans you make during your pregnancy will have a big influence on your birthing experience. There is lots to know and many options available. A doula can provide access to this information, and help you make the choices that are right for your family.

During labour and birth

Medical staff in hospitals and birth centres have many responsibilities and demands on their time. At this most important stage a doula is there just for you and your needs.

Life with a new baby

Adjusting to life with a new baby brings many rewards and challenges. An extra pair of hands to give you a break, someone to offer assistance with your baby at home or provide reassurance in baby-care can give much needed relief. A doula can help lighten the load.

 

Research widely states that the presence of a continuous, dedicated support person such as a doula, throughout labour and birth, is a key to a safe and happy birth experience.

Ultimately, the role of a doula is dictated by the parents-to-be. This may range from a reassuring presence who 'holds the space', to a more active role in providing physical assistance and psychological encouragement.

Studies have shown that women supported by a doula in labour can have

• shorter labor
• half the caesarean rate
• many fewer epidural requests
• less analgesic use
• fewer forceps deliveries

and that, 6 weeks after birth, mothers who had doulas tend to be

• less anxious and depressed
• more confident with their baby
• happier with their partner
• more likely to be breastfeeding

These statistics appear in A Doula Makes the Difference by Nugent in Mothering Magazine, March-April 1998.