A birth doula is a non-medical professional who believes in women’s natural ability to give birth by providing physical, emotional, and informational support before, during, and after birth. In Greek, doula actually means “female servant”. Birth doulas offer practical help and guidance to families, helping them prepare for birth.

Doulas never perform medical tasks. However, studies show that when having a doula, there is a decrease in cesarean rates, less use of pain medication, shorter labor times, increased breastfeeding success, and an overall better birth experience for mother and baby. A doula is trained in understanding physiologic labor and how to help with its progression. Often outside of the conventional medicine norm, they offer guidance in how to move with labor (helping with progression) and offer comfort techniques. Doulas are there to listen to your wants and needs and advocate for your wishes for your baby and birth experience.