A doula is a professionally trained person in childbirth who supports a woman in pregnancy, labour and postnatally. A doula provides emotional, physical and informational support. A doulas role is to ensure a women has a childbirth to cherish and it be a safe, memorable and empowering experience. Doula is a Greek word meaning 'womens servant'.
Women have been supporting other women in childbirth for centuries and a midwife was traditionally a womans labour companion. However in modern hospitals now you are increasingly unlikely to know your midwife and may see different midwives continuously. Several different midwives may even be involved with the birth if shifts change during the labour! This is where a doula is now so beneficial as you will know them and know they are there solely for you and for the duration! It has been proven that another womans presence is beneficial to the birth process.
Continuous support from a doula during labour provides physical and emotional benefits for mothers and health bonuses for their babies. With less medical interventions, fewer complications, and shorter hospital stays, there may be financial savings as well
HARVARD HEALTH LETTER
The Fathers role when a doula is part of the birth team
The role of a doula is never to take the place of the role of the Father but to enhance and compliment the experience. Many Fathers now take a very active role in childbirth but many feel it is a huge responsibility, not being able to comprehend what it feels like and they are grateful to be able to enjoy the experience and not be expected to be the 'labour coach'! When a doula is present at a birth, the father can do whatever he feels comfortable with at any given moment. Doulas are a reassurance to the father and can encourage him and take over from him if he needs a break. Having a doula present, allows the father to concentrate on supporting the woman emotionally at a time she really needs him to.
