Originally, the Greeks defined a doula as a woman who helps other women.  Today's doula is that and much more.  A doula provides support to a woman during her pregnancy and labor - often continuing with post-partum care.

A doula is not trained in the medical field and is not a midwife.  She is not able to perform medical procedures or make medical decisions for the mother.  However, she is well trained in the process of childbirth and can explain a medical procedure in terms that a woman in labor can understand.  It is not uncommon to have both a midwife and doula with you during labor - the midwife performing the delivery while the doula keeps you comfortable and helps you to focus.

There have been many studies conducted on the positive effects a doula can have on a birthing mother.  Results are amazing, with a 50% drop in cesarean sections and significant drops in length of labor and pain medication use.  A doula is not related to the birth mother and can therefore give mom a calm, managed and focused care that a family member cannot.  Although Dad or the birthing partner can provide love and support, they may feel overwhelmed with the task of helping Mom to give birth when they have no experience with childbirth themselves.  The doula provides uninterrupted emotional and physical support to a woman in labor.

Here are the results of several comparison studies that were carried out in different hospital settings:

The doula is often a mother herself and knows the female body intimately.  A birthing mother is able to feel completely relaxed around a doula and can concentrate on giving birth rather than on her state of dress or vulnerability.  This significantly decreases the pain a mother feels and helps her to focus on breathing and contractions.

Once the baby is born, a doula stays and makes sure the couple's wishes are followed.  If they have asked for alone time with the baby, she helps them to get as much as they need.  She will help the mother learn to breastfeed and explain to her what she may expect following delivery.  There are post-partum doulas as well.  They visit the house many times after the baby is born - again helping with breastfeeding - but also assisting with newborn care education.  She can recognize post-partum depression as well as help the parents to understand when an infant should be seen by a doctor.  And more importantly - she can listen - something that is invaluable to a new mother and father.

A doula should have several qualities:

• She should be in good shape physically.  A doula helps to support a mother in many different positions during labor.  She may walk extensively with mom and hold her up while contractions occur.

• Your doula should be able to work well with every type of personality if you are delivering in a hospital setting.  She must be able to communicate well - especially in stressful situations.

• Your doula must be nurturing, caring and positive.

• A doula should have great experience in assisting women during childbirth.

• You must feel comfortable with your doula touching you and visa versa.  Touch is vital during a birthing experience, so you should feel at ease with your doula's touch.

• A doula must have a steady calm about her, particularly when she is helping a woman nearing the final stages of birth.  She should be able to gain the attention of a woman who may be in distress or panic due to pain or fear.