Doula is a Greek work referring to an experienced woman who helps other women.  The word has now come to mean a woman experienced in childbirth who provides continuous physical, emotional, and information support to the mother before, during and just after childbirth. (Kennell & Klaus)

Giving birth is a momentous and life changing event in a woman’s life.  With the right education and support, it can be joyous and empowering.

The acceptance of doulas in maternity care is growing rapidly with the recognition of their important contribution to the improved physical outcomes and emotional well being of mothers and infants.  Eleven studies showed the following effects of doula support (from DONA International):

Effects on Birth Outcomes:

• Labors are shorter
• There are fewer complications
• Cesarean rates are reduced
• There is less need for oxytocin to speed up labor
• Need for forceps is reduced
• Women request less pain medication and epidurals

Effects on the Mother:

• Greater satisfaction with the birth experience
• More positive assessments of their babies
• Less postpartum depression

Effects on the Baby:

• Babies have shorter hospital stays with fewer admissions to special care nurseries
• Babies breastfeed more easily
• Mothers are more affectionate to their babies postpartum

The Benefit of continuous support in labor is recognized by:

• The World Health Organization (WHO)
• The Medical Leadership Council (an organization of over 1200 US hospitals)
• The Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Canada

"Birth is not only about making babies. Birth is about making mothers - strong, competent, capable mothers who trust themselves and know their inner strength."
- Barbara Katz-Rothman