FAQs....

"Doula" (pronounced "doola") is a Greek word meaning "woman servant or caregiver". It now refers to an experienced woman who offers emotional and practical support to a woman (or couple) before, during and after childbirth. A doula believes in “mothering the mother” - enabling a woman to have the most satisfying and empowered time that she can during pregnancy, birth and the early days as a new mum. This type of support also helps the whole family to relax and enjoy the experience.

Birth doulas are trained and experienced in childbirth, although they may or may not have given birth themselves. They have a good knowledge and awareness of female physiology BUT the doula is not supporting the mother in a clinical role - that is the job of the midwife/medical staff.

Postnatal doulas work flexible hours to suit the family, offering practical and emotional support to the new mother and father in the home following the birth of baby. In the West today, too often mothers are rushed back into normal day-to-day activities; in many cultures women are confined to bed and rest for a period of up to 40 days. This may be impossible in our society but with the help of a postnatal doula, a mother can enjoy some of the benefits of a prolonged "lying in" period. This will help her bond with her baby and spend extra time with any older siblings. Our work is about empowering a family to take care of itself and we facilitate this by helping around the house and offering encouragement and suggestion.
Doula UK (2010)

2. Why do I need a doula if I have a midwife?

Midwives and Doulas fulfil different roles, although their roles may overlap: Midwives are medically trained and will offer medical advice. They monitor the wellbeing of both the mother and baby during pregnancy and birth. watching for complications and adapting their care accordingly, involving other medical professionals as required. The mother may be cared for by a number of midwives throughout her pregnancy and labour - particularly when shifts change!

Doulas aren't (usually) medically trained and don't offer advice. Their main role is to support the mother: to listen to her, to inform and empower her, to be a constant companion once labour starts. A doula doesn't tell the mother how things should be done but supports her to find her own way and make decisions and choices that are right for her and her family. She will stay with the labouring mother no matter how long (or short!) the labour is - there are no shift changes! And as she is only on call for one woman at a time, she guarantees to be there.