The word “doula” comes from the Greek word for the most important female servant in an ancient Greek household.

A doula is a non medical professional who provides guidance for the service of others and who supports another person (the doula's client) through a significant health-related experience, such as childbirth.  
 

The word has come to refer to “a woman experienced in childbirth who provides continuous physical, emotional, and informational support to the mother before, during and just after childbirth.” (Klaus, Kennell and Klaus, Mothering the Mother)​.

 

A doula essentially mother's the mother.  When a baby is born, a  new mother is also born and it is the doula's job to hold the mother in whatever way she feels that she would like to be supported.

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I am so proud to announce that I can now officially call myself a doula!  I trained with THE best at Developing Doulas who are approved by Doula UK.

 

I had the most amazing experience while I was training, it was a really special group of women and I’ve made some lifelong friends.  I am being mentored by Maddie McMahon, the co-founder of Developing Doulas.

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For those who don’t know quite what a doula is, there are two types of Doula, a birth doula and a Post Natal Doula. You can also book a doula for the antenatal period, the birth of your baby and the post natal period too.

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Understanding the Role of a Birth Doula  

Bringing a new life into the world is a profound journey, and the support and guidance you receive during this experience can make all the difference. This is where a birth doula steps in, a trained professional who provides continuous physical, emotional, and informational support to mothers before, during, and just after childbirth.

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What Exactly Does a Birth Doula Do?

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1. Emotional Support:

Continuous Presence:

Perhaps the most crucial aspect of a doula's role is their unwavering presence throughout labour and birth. They offer reassurance, encouragement, and a calming presence, helping to create a sense of security for the labouring person and their partner.

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Active Listening:

Doulas listen attentively to the concerns, fears, and preferences of the parents. They validate their emotions and provide non-judgmental support, fostering a trusting relationship.

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Empowerment:

By providing information and helping the parents understand their options, doulas empower them to make informed decisions about their birth experience.

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2. Physical Support:

Comfort Measures:

Doulas are skilled in various comfort techniques such as breathing exercises, massage, positioning suggestions, and using tools like birth balls or heating pads to alleviate discomfort during labour.

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Advocacy:

They act as advocates for the birthing person's wishes and preferences, ensuring that these are communicated effectively to medical staff and respected throughout the birth process.

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3. Informational Support:

Education:

Doulas educate expectant parents about the stages of labour, medical procedures, and potential interventions. This knowledge empowers parents to navigate their birth experience and to make informed decisions with confidence.

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Birth Planning:

They assist in creating birth plans that outline preferences for labour and birthing your baby, helping to ensure that the experience aligns as closely as possible with the parents' wishes.

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4. Postpartum Support:

Immediate Assistance:

Doulas provide support immediately after birth, aiding with initiating breastfeeding and bonding between the baby and parents, ensuring the new family feels supported during their first moments together.

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Follow-Up:

Some doulas offer postpartum visits to check in on the family, provide breastfeeding support, and offer guidance as they adjust to life with a newborn.

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The Impact of Doula Support

Research consistently shows that having a doula present during childbirth can lead to positive outcomes:

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Reduced Intervention Rates:

Studies indicate lower rates of medical interventions such as Caesarean sections and epidurals among birthing individuals supported by doulas.

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Improved Birth Experiences:

Parents report greater satisfaction with their birth experiences when supported by a doula, regardless of how the birth unfolds.

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Enhanced Emotional Well-being:

The continuous support of a doula can significantly reduce stress and anxiety during labour, promoting a more positive emotional experience.

In essence, a birth doula is a dedicated companion who walks alongside expectant parents, offering guidance, reassurance, and advocacy throughout one of life's most transformative moments. Their holistic support enhances the birthing experience, empowering parents and nurturing a positive environment for the arrival of a new baby. Whether providing a comforting touch, sharing evidence based information, or simply being a pillar of strength, birth doulas play a crucial role in shaping a positive and empowering childbirth experience.