Doula: Is the term new to you?

doula and pregnant motherWhat is a doula?

The word “doula” was originally a Greek word meaning “woman servant.” Today it refers to a non-medically trained labour support person. A birth doula is someone who is knowledgeable in all aspects of pregnancy, labour, and birth, and uses her expertise to provide support, encouragement, information, and evidence, helping mother to make informed choices and have the labour and birth she desires. Doula is equipped to assist before, during, and after childbirth, with the additional capacity to provide care into the early postpartum period, tending to the family’s needs during the transition period.

A growing body of research shows – doulas make a difference. There are many clear evidence-based reasons for having a doula by your side during childbirth and early postpartum. The statistics on doulas are amazing.

  • 9% decrease in the use of any medications for pain relief
  • 12% increase in the likelihood of a spontaneous vaginal birth
  • 14% decrease in the risk of newborns being admitted to a special care nursery
  • 28% decrease in the risk of C-section
  • 31% decrease in the use of Pitocin
  • 34% decrease in the risk of being dissatisfied with the birth experience
What does a doula do?

The doula is not a medical care provider. She does not perform clinical procedures or replace medical care providers. The job of the doula is to “mother the mother” during the birth of her baby. Doulas add an element of care for the mother that the medical community cannot. The doula will give the mother her undivided and continuous attention, provide comfort measures, and help maintain a soothing atmosphere during and after labour. By wholeheartedly believing in labouring woman, the doula will empower her to meet her birthing goals and dreams, while creating a wonderful supportive environment for the new family.

I am offering you my birth doula services in Toronto, York Region and some of the GTA (Ontario, Canada).

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