Doula is a Greek word referring to a woman in the service of another.
Today, Doula refers to a woman professionally trained and experienced in childbirth who provides continuous physical and emotional support to the laboring woman and her partner during labor, birth and the immediate postpartum period.
In addition, a Doula:
- Understands and believes in the birth process and the woman’s ability to birth
- Offers informational support about the course of labor and offers options to the laboring woman and her partner throughout the birth experience
- Assists with coping techniques and comfort measures, such as breathing, relaxation, massage and positioning
- Assists with breastfeeding, proper latch-on and positioning, during the immediate postpartum period
Statistics indicate that a Doula attended births can lead to:
- 50% reduction in the Cesarean rate
- 25% shorter labor
- 60% reduction in epidural requests
- 40% reduction in oxytocin use
- 30% reduction in analgesia use
- 40% reduction in forceps delivery
So.. Do you Doula?
If you have never considered the option of hiring a Doula to assist with your labor and birth experience, please contact Darcie today!