What is a doula?
A birth doula is a trained pregnancy and labor support person. Doulas provide continuous emotional, physical, and mental support and comfort during labor for the pregnant person and their birth companion. Doulas also provide education before, during, and after the birth.
A doula does not provide clinical services.
"A doula's goal is to help the laboring person have a satisfying birth as they define it"
Penny Simkin, The Birth Partner
The impact of doulas on healthy birth outcomes
Less pain during labor and delivery
Reduced use of pain medications
Shorter labor
Fewer major labor interventions (induction, Cesarean, vacuum extraction, forceps)
Lower probability of low Apgar scores at birth
Positive and satisfying birth experience for mom AND partner
Learn More
The evidence for birth. Rebecca Dekker, PhD, RN
What is a Doula? DONA.org
Cochrane Review: Continuous support for women during childbirth
What is a Doula? (video)