A doula (also known as a birth attendant) is a professional who is trained in childbirth and provides continuous support to a mother before, during and after the birth.  The term doula originates from a Greek word that means "a woman who serves".  A doula;

• Provides emotional support
• Uses comfort measures - breathing, relaxation, positioning
• Provides information
• Provides continuous reassurance, encouragement and comfort
• Assists the mother and her birth partner in navigating the various options available and provides resources to assist the family make informed decisions
• Assists with and encourages facilitation of communication with care providers
• Looks after the birth partner as well and works with them to ensure the mother is comfortable and supported in the way she needs and wants
• Assists the mother in finding the confidence to voice her needs and wants with care providers. 

It is important to note that doulas are not medically trained professionals and therefor do not perform medical or clinical tasks such as monitoring blood pressure, monitoring fetal heart rate (including with a Doppler), perform internal exams nor assist in the birth of the baby.  A doula also does not;

• Give medical advice or diagnose conditions
• Pass judgment on the choices you make
• Let their own personal beliefs or biases affect the way they support you
• Replace the role of partner or husband
• Advocate for or speak on your behalf. 

But I have my husband/partner to support me, why would I want a doula?
Excellent question!  And one we are asked quite often.  The simple answer is, your partner/husband is an essential support person and we do not replace them.  We work with them to provide you with the level of support you need.  By working together, your primary support person and your doula ensure that you have continuous support- if your partner needs to use the bathroom or is struggling with tiredness due to a long labour, you will still have a known and trusted support person with you while they freshen up and regroup in order to continue providing support. 

Also, most husbands/partners have limited knowledge of labour and birth, medical procedures and what goes on in hospitals, so having a doula there to explain what is happening or help both of you understand what is going on can provide an added level of support.

What are the benefits of having a doula?
Aside from continuous support, there have been many proven benefits to having a doula present, including:

• Fewer caesareans
• Reduction in the use of forceps or vacuum
• Fewer requests for epidurals
• Reduction in the use of synthetic oxytocin for inductions or augmentations
• Reduction in the use of pain medication
• Reduction in the length of labour
• Increased rate of breastfeeding at 6 weeks postpartum
• Higher self esteem, less anxiety and less depression at 6 weeks post partum
• Higher overall satisfaction with labour and birth experience

Of course having a doula doesn't mean intervention or medication won't be needed- in some cases it is the safest course of action for mum and/or baby.  What it does mean though, is that whatever happens, you will be supported, and informed and able to make the best decision for you.