A doula is a woman who has been professionally trained in labor support techniques.  She suggests ways to make the pregnancy and delivery more comfortable emotionally, mentally and physically.  A doula alleviates some of the pressure on the father and other labor support persons.  She acts as an advocate for the mother, providing the best birth experience possible.
   There are two different kinds of doulas -- birth doulas and postpartum doulas.  Birth doulas are not considered the same as postpartum doulas, even though they provide some postpartum care.  Birth doulas assist a mother before, during and immediately after birth.  Postpartum doulas assist mother and baby in the initial weeks following birth.  Doulas in the Doula Connection are trained as birth doulas.  
   Doulas are NOT medical professionals and cannot give medical advice at any time before, during, or after birth.  They can only give you information that will help you make a decision.  Doulas are also unable to perform medical duties such as exams, IV's, vitals, etc., and are not affiliated with any medical organization, but instead are a part of your support team.    


                * Hear from couples who've had a doula in this short video 
                entitled What is a doula?  that is totally worth watching!



                       A doula provides you with:

• Information during pregnancy
• Exercise and physical suggestions to make pregnancy more comfortable
• Help preparing a birth plan
• Emotional support
• Explanations of medical procedures
• Someone to continuously be with you throughout your labor and delivery
• Positioning options during labor & birth
• Support for the partner so they can love and encourage the laboring woman
• Massage and other drug-free pain relief measures
• Initial breastfeeding support, postpartum and infant care
• Other possibilities which will vary from doula to doula                     
                                                                      

Studies have shown
that women who were assisted
by doulas had more positive outcomes
in the categories listed below
than those without doulas:   

+ Breastfeeding

+ Maternal/infant interaction

+ Postpartum depression, anxiety, and self-esteem

+ Satisfaction with their birth experience

+ Maternal assessments of their baby when compared to the “standard baby”



          

  Are you convinced you need a doula?
Yes, find me a doula! 




If you still need more information about doulas
or the Doula Connection, contact us!