Doula comes from an ancient Greek word meaning “woman’s servant” or “woman who serves”. A birth doula is a companion (a non-medical professional) who walks alongside you through the pregnancy + birth experience and provides mental, physical, spiritual, and emotional support along with knowledge and expertise on all things birth.
Having a doula by your side through the birth experience has revealed many benefits and has been statistically found to improve overall outcomes for both mamas and babes. Isn’t that WILD!
Here are a few goodies that come with having a doula by your side:
Doulas are a HUGE resource for extensive knowledge related to the perinatal period - that means you have your own personal google to answer all your questions and walk you through your birth options.
Doulas are the only professional who will continually be by your side throughout your labour + delivery. Medical staff (your doctors, nurses, and midwife - yes even your midwife!) will come and go but your doula (or maybe your backup doula too) will be with you throughout.
Doulas can assist with both physical and emotional recovery. Once again, doulas are fluent in all things birth - whatever you may need support or guidance with your doula will be there with information + expertise!
Not only does your doula support you, but they also support your partner so your partner can best support you! We know that the birth experience isn’t familiar to everyone and it can feel overwhelming to navigate. Your doula can guide your partner through supporting you physically with position changes and emotionally with words of encouragement. Having a doula by your side also allows your partner to take care of themselves (getting food, going to the bathroom, and other household chores) without leaving you alone.
Liking the sound of a doula? You’re gonna love this!
Research finds births that are supported by a doula are:
15% more likely to have a spontaneous vaginal birth
10% less likely to use medical pain relief (including epidurals + pitocin)
39% decrease in the rate of cesarean section (c-section)
Less likely to use vacuum or forceps assistance
More likely to have an overall positive childbirth experience
So there you have it! Feeling sold on a doula? (So am I!)
