What is a Doula

A doula is a person who is a trained birthing companion who assists and supports the birthing woman and her partner during pregnancy, birth and postpartum. A doula can attend to all women on their birthing journey, whether it is a natural or medicalized birth, at home, in a birth centre or hospital.
Doulas are not medical care providers. However, they are an important part of the expecting parents’ support team, making sure they are aware of all of their options when it comes to labour and birth, and postpartum care. They provide continuous physical, emotional, spiritual, and informational support to the mother and father during their journey. Doulas work alongside the midwife as a team, ensuring that all types of birth experiences are as positive and empowering as possible.
Doulas do not perform medical checks, procedures, or deliver babies. They hold space so the birthing person can be relaxed, respected, honored and involved in all their childbirth decisions. During labor they use a variety of skills and techniques to ensure that the expecting family is completely supported during their journey. A doula may offer massage, food and water, and guide the mother through contractions. They also consult with your care providers, support your partner and ensure that your environment supports your birth wishes.