The Word “Doula” comes from Greece and means “woman who serves.” I love this definition.  Of course, ancient Greek Doulas and the Doulas of modern times are quite different.  Modern day Doulas are well trained and experienced in assisting a mother through labor and birth in a variety of settings, including hospital birth, home birth, and birth center births.  Some Doulas are also trained to serve women through births in special circumstances and with anticipated special needs.  I am one of these Doulas, trained to serve and support mothers preparing to give birth in any trimester and in any circumstance.

 

Some interesting statistics about Doulas courtesy of Better Birth Network:

 

Having a Doula:

 

Effects on Birth Outcomes:

• Labors are 25% shorter.

• There are fewer complications.

• Cesarean rates are reduced by 50%.

• There is 40% less need for oxytocin to speed up labor.

• Need for forceps is reduced by 40%.

• Women request 30% less pain medication and 60% fewer epidurals.

Effects on the Mother:

• Greater satisfaction with their birth experience.

• More positive assessments of their babies.

• Less postpartum depression.

Effects on the Baby:

• Babies have shorter hospital stays with fewer admissions to special care nurseries.

• Babies breastfeed more easily.

• Mothers are more affectionate to their babies postpartum.