What is a doula?
The word "doula" comes from the Greek word meaning "handmaid" or "servant." Today, the word has come to refer to someone who is skilled in providing continuous emotional, physical, and informational support to a woman in childbirth.
A doula does not perform clinical tasks such as vaginal exams, fetal heart checks, or blood pressure assessments. Doing so would dilute her support role. Doulas are intent on providing the type of care that is so often lacking in today's world of maternity care – personal attention, information, and most importantly, support.
A doula does not perform clinical tasks such as vaginal exams, fetal heart checks, or blood pressure assessments. Doing so would dilute her support role. Doulas are intent on providing the type of care that is so often lacking in today's world of maternity care – personal attention, information, and most importantly, support.
A doula is not meant to be a replacement for the father. Ideally, the doula and the father should work together to see that the mother's needs are met. While a doula focuses on the mother, she can also remind the couple of the things they learned in childbirth class, answer questions, and suggest ways for the father to support the mother. The knowledge and experience that a doula brings, as well as the extra set of hands and her comforting demeanor, can help ease the pressure on the father, thereby allowing him the ability to more fully participate in the birth of his child. A doula's calming influence may be crucial in allowing both the mother and the father to have a blessed beginning with their new little one! |
If a doula is the only support person present, her role remains extremely beneficial. The doula's calm reassurance, continuous presence, and unfailing support may be vital in allowing the mother to feel loved and well-cared-for during this memorable event.
A doula makes sure your needs are met. She serves you as a:
- Friend – A doula's devotion shows that she really cares about you. She is in this with you and will not leave until the birth is over.
- Servant – She is focused on your needs and ready to assist you in any way she can. There is no job beneath her dignity.
- Professional – She is trained, experienced, and knowledgeable in regards to the birth process. She is perceptive and can often sense what will be the most helpful to you during different times in labor. She also acts as a reference book, ready to provide you with useful information.