The word "doula" is a Greek word meaning "woman servant." In labor support terminology, "doula" refers to a supportive companion (not a loved one) with the laboring woman. Doulas are a new member of the birth team and are gaining popularity. Most doulas are becoming certfied in order to provide a professional standard of practice. Doulas work in all birth settings, from hospitals to birth centers to homes. They perform no clinical tasks, but are there to provide the "bedside manner" that is missing in many settings today. Doulas are knowledgeable in the process of birth and have usually given birth themselves. For the woman in labor, a doula is a valued guide through uncharted waters. Professionally certified doulas are trained to provide the laboring woman with continuous emotional, physical, and informational support. Doulas work for the couple and are advocates for their wishes.

Many studies have been done that show that trained doulas give a health benefit as well. Women who receive doula care are less likely to use pain medications (especially the epidural), they average shorter labors, they have fewer cesareans, fewer infections and shorter hospitalizations. Doulas of North America(r) is an international organization of doulas who are trained to provide the highest quality labor support to birthing women and their families.  If you would like more information about the role of doulas, visit Doulas of North America at www.dona.org .


As a doula, I like to meet with the expectant woman or couple at least twice during the third trimester to decipher their needs and desires and help them form a birth plan. I am available for telephone help before and after the birth.

I meet the laboring woman preferrably before she has gone to the birth place. This gives the couple the benefit of knowing whether it is too soon to go to the birth place.

Once with the couple, I provide comfort measures such as cool or warm compresses, massage, and ice chips as needed. I also give emotional support such as praise, encouragement, reassurance and continuous physical presence. Because I am well-trained in the terminology and process of childbirth, I can give my clients an interpretation of what is happening through the labor and birth and explain any procedures that the medical staff needs or wants to perform.

After the birth, I remain for at least two hours to help establish breastfeeding, and see that the family is settled in together. I am a retired La Leche League Leader and I am very enthusiastic about breastfeeding. For more information about La Leche League, visit www.lalecheleague.org .  Within two weeks of the birth, I come to the couple's home after the birth at least once to review the birth and help with postpartum adjustments.