Doula is an ancient Greek word meaning “slave to the Mother”. In ancient times in most cultures birthing women were tended to by women of the household, family or women in the community.

A doula is employed by you to tend to your needs (and that of your partner) during birth. A doula’s role is not to replace the father or other chosen birth partner but to help you prepare mentally and physically for birth. She supports your emotional needs and understands the excitement and apprehension that go hand in hand with birth and motherhood.

She mothers the mother in her time of need. She is compassionate, sensitive, discreet and understanding. Whether you choose a homebirth or a hospital birth, whether you choose to have pain relief or a natural birth or whether you have a caesarean birth or a vaginal birth, she will be there to support you and your partner.

Labour Statistics

• 50% reduction on caesarian rate
• 20% shorter labour
• 60% reduction in the need for epidurals
• 40% reduction in forceps use
• 40% reduction in Syntocinon use (induction)
• 30% reduction in analgesia use (narcotics)

Benefits for Mothers

• Better bonding with baby and partner after birth
• Lower rates of Post Natal Depression
• Higher rates of successful breastfeeding
• Greater sense of achievement
• Greater sense of support
• Greater satisfaction with her partner’s role in supporting her in labour

Benefits for Fathers

• Less pressure as the sole support person
• Ability to have breaks without abandoning partner
• Encouragement and guidance in how to support a labouring woman
• Emotional support and reassurance
• Greater satisfaction for the support you are able to provide your partner
• Greater sense of involvement in being able to absorb the birth experience

Source: Klaus, Kennell and Klaus, 1993