"If doula were a drug, it would be unethical not to use it"
    ~Dr. John Kennell

What do doulas do?
Doulas “mother the mother.” While performing her role, a doula:
  • provides emotional support

  • uses comfort measures: breathing, relaxation, movement, positioning

  • provides information

  • continuously reassures and comforts the mother (the key word is continuous—a Doula never leaves the mother’s side)

  • helps the mother and her partner become informed about various birth choices

  • advocates for the mother and helps facilitate communication between the mother and care provider

  • can help with initial breastfeeding establishment and postpartum period.

  • does not replace your partner.  She is there to support both of you and nurture your relationship. She will guide your partner in supporting you.  If they are overwhelmed or nervous that's okay, your Doula can step in so they can take a breather.  Having a Doula present takes a lot of pressure off of your partner allowing them to enjoy the experience and care for themselves.
Benefits of Having a Doula?
Numerous clinical studies have found that a doula’s presence at birth:
  • tends to result in shorter labors with fewer complications

  • reduces negative feelings about one’s childbirth experience

  • reduces the need for Pitocin (a labor-inducing drug), forceps or vacuum extraction and cesareans

  • reduces the mother’s request for pain medication and/or epidurals

  • reduces the risk of newborns being admitted to a special care nursery

  • increases the likelihood of a spontaneous vaginal birth