What is a doula?

The word doula is an ancient Greek word meaning ‘woman servant’. The concept of having a doula is relatively new in Australia, but is very common in many other countries.

A doula provides emotional, physical & educational support to a woman & her partner throughout pregnancy, childbirth & the postnatal period.

What does a doula do?

A doula will use many techniques to encourage the labour process – including massage, relaxation, breathing, visualisation & positioning.  She assists the couple to research their options for labour & to make an informed decision by providing them with resources & information.

A doula will build a relationship with the couple during pregnancy & assist them to develop their ideal birth by building a birth plan.  The doula nurtures & encourages the woman & supports her to achieve the best birthing experience for her.  A doula supports the woman’s birth ideal & does not impose her own opinions or views on the birthing process.   She will also help the partner to take an active role in supporting the woman throughout her pregnancy & birth.

Benefits of a doula

Current research shows the following benefits of doulas on a woman’s labour, birth & post natal period:

• 60% less need for an epidural and 30% less need for an injection or pain killers
• Reduction in the need for syntocinon drip
• Length of labour reduced by 25%
• Less need of forceps or vacuum deliveries
• The need for caesarean section reduced by 50%
• More normal births
• Mothers have a better birth experience
• Mothers have less anxiety during labour
• Mothers bond better with their babies
• Mothers are more confident with their babies
• Mothers have less depression following birth