You may be asking yourself...
What is a doula?
A doula is a person who has decided to dedicate their life to the ancient practice of helping women have a memorable birth experience. "The word 'doula' comes from ancient Greek, meaning 'Woman’s servant'. Throughout history and in much of the world today, a cadre of women support a woman through labor and birth, giving back rubs and providing continuous emotional
support." (www.dona.org) She is a calming presence amoung the often medicalized and chaotic world of birth. A doula does not perform any medical tasks nor give medical advice. She does not take over or control the labor experience, nor does she make decisions on behalf of the laboring mom. Instead, a doula provides quiet encouragement, calm energy, and an enhanced sense of the natural abilities of the laboring woman. A doula provides continuous physical, emotional, and informational support before, during, and just after birth. A woman can ask anything of her doula without fear of embarrassment or judgement. http://www.youtube.com/watchv=jvmB96cRnaU&feature=player_detailpage
Why do I need a doula?
A doula brings with her a wealth of knowledge about childbirth and ways to help women cope with their very personal and amazing experience. Unlike hospital staff, a doula offers continuity of care and support for the women throughout labor and delivery. Each laboring woman follows her own "rhythm". Many times this "rhythm" includes movements and sounds that may be foreign or frightening to a partner that has never witnessed a birth. A doula can offer reassurance to the partner and even narrate the changes that are occuring in the body. The partner is often confronted with an experience that is unique to women and faces thefrustration of the inability to alleviate her discomfort . The partner benifits from the doula's spirit, experience, and knowledge. Doulas assist a partner to become involved in the birth experience to the degree he/she feels comfortable. A doula is a nurturing presence for the entire family.
Five Reasons You Need a Doula in the Delivery Room- Pregnancy Magazine
http://www.pregnancymagazine.com/the-big-day/five-reasons-you-need-a-doula-delivery-room