A doula is a trained professional that provides continual labour support for birthing mothers and their partners. A doula can help to:
- Shorten
the length of labour
- Reduce the need for a caesarean section
- Decrease the need for medication
- Enhance bonding
There are two types of doulas: Birth doulas and postpartum doulas.
A birth doula will...
- Give
physical and emotional support during birth
- Support the
mother's birth choices
- Work with the father/partner to support the mother
- Stay with the labouring mother throughout her entire labour
- Meet with the mother before the birth to discuss birth plans and fears
- Provide information, not advice
- Respect privacy of clients
- Respect the sexual orientations and identifications of all clients
- Respect each clients's background and life experience
A postpartum doula will...
- Assist
with newborn care
- Help with family adjustment
- Help to establish breastfeeding
- Offer non-judgemental support
A doula does not...
- Play
a medical role
- Make decisions
for the mother
- Replace a father/partner
