What is a doula?
A doula is a person experienced with birth who offers support during the prenatal period, through labour and birth, and into the postpartum period. They provide information, emotional support and physical comfort. They do not offer any medical services and do not replace a midwife or doctor.
A doula is a valuable addition to the maternity team, helping their client to feel empowered to make choices and achieve the birth experience they want.
A doula is also very valuable to the partner, helping them to participate in the birth, process their emotions, and providing them the opportunity to rest when needed.
For more information on the benefits of doula care, here are some further reading suggestions: