"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 (sometimes known as a birth companion) 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.

Why do I need a Doula?

As a society we have often moved away from close family who would have provided a nurturing role in the past to new mothers.  Doulas can help to provide evidence based practical information and support. 

Perhaps having a difficult or traumatic pregnancy or birth, (or an event in a womans past) is making a current pregnancy difficult to deal with emotionally, a doula can provide a continuity of support which can help a woman to find her own strength to have the best birth possible.

Doulas can work along side birth partners (partner, mum, sisters etc) or with women who do not have a birth partner.  A doula working alongside a partner can take some of the pressure off the partner who may be feeling unsure or upset about whats happening.  Whatever the circumstances a doula can help with many things including:

         Understanding the demands on a woman (both physically and  emotionally) during labour.  Supporting her in following her birth plan.

         Staying with the women throughout the labour - perhaps at home in the early stages, then transferring to hospital with the woman, staying with her however long the labour is.

         Offer an independent objective view when decisions have to be made - A doula cannot make a decision for you, but we will support whatever decision you make

          Help communicate with medical staff and find the information the woman needs

The doula's most important role is to prove nurturing, continuous support and reassurance.

What doesn't a doula do? 

A doula is not medically trained and will not interfere with medical advice from your doctor or midwife.  A doula will not speak for you or make decisions for you, but will empower you to make your wishes known and heard in the labour room.  A doula is not a replacement for a midwife.

As a Doula UK doula I follow the Doula UK Code of Conduct and the Doula UK philosophy.  I am also Nurturing Birth Trained and adhere to the Nurturing Birth Code of Conduct.

For more information please e-mail me: sue@maternaltouch.org.uk Tel: 07779758181

Don't forget Doula UK offer Gift Vouchers for doula services.