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What is a Doula? The word “doula” is a Greek word meaning “woman who serves”. Women have been serving or helping other women during childbirth for hundreds of years. Generally in two roles, the midwife and an attendant. In modern terms, a doula is a woman who fills the role of the mother’s attendant. There are two types of doulas – a birth doula and a postpartum doula. When the term “doula” is used on it’s own it is generally referring to a birth doula. While certification with an organization is not required, most doulas are trained and certified with one of a few organizations, like DONA (Doulas of North America) or CAPPA (Childbirth and Postpartum Professional Association). The goal of the doula is to provide physical, emotional and informational support to the mother and partner during delivery. A doula is on call 24/7 around the time of your estimated due date and is available for phone and email consultation during pregnancy and early postpartum. I have a partner, why do I need a Doula? A doula does not replace your partner, but works with them to ensure the mother receives constant physical and emotional support, being a calm and trained source of knowledge for the both of you. Doulas and partners compliment each other’s strengths. What are the benefits of a Doula? A doula is trained in pain reducing breathing techniques, optimal labour positioning, labour progression and breastfeeding. Having a doula present can reduce stress for the mother and her family because she is experienced in dealing with the physical and emotional needs of women in labor. Using her training in delivery procedures and her knowledge of the possible complications of childbirth, a doula can help you understand the options when developing a birth plan, including pain medication and cesarean birth. The doula can also remind you of your plan and to help you understand what is going on if any issues arise during delivery. The role of a birth doula is flexible based on the needs and desires of the mother and her supporting family. Studies have shown that women who have a doula with them at birth tend to need less pain medication and are less likely to receive medical intervention. A doula recognizes the life changing importance of giving birth and strives to ensure that the mother has an empowering and positive experience of the birth of her child. What doesn’t a Doula do? It is important to understand what a doula does not do during childbirth. The doula is not a trained medical professional and will not take the place of anyone on the medical team, including a doctor, nurse, or midwife. Are Doulas covered by any Extended Health Insurance? Yes! My Doula Services may be covered, especially if you have insurance with Sun Life Financial and a Flex or Health Spending Account. Please be aware that not all insurance companies will cover Doulas and that not all Doulas qualify for coverage. For more info, please contact me! I want a Doula but I don’t think I can afford one. Please read this article!

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