The word "doula" comes from the ancient Greek meaning "a woman who serves" and is now used to refer to a trained and experienced professional who provides continuous physical, emotional and informational support to the mother before, during and just after birth; or who provides emotional and practical support during the postpartum period.

Studies have shown that when doulas attend birth, labours are shorter with fewer complications, babies are healthier and they breastfeed more easily.

Will you benefit from the services of a doula?

A doula is a trained childbirth professional who understands the labour and birth process. When a labouring woman feels safe and secure and is encouraged and reassured then labour can progress normally. Oftentimes, interventions are minimized so that the mother can trust and allow her body to give birth.

The doula must abide by a Code of Ethics and Standards and Scope of Practice. Certification is highly recommended.

Numerous studies have shown that the presence of a doula at a birth results in:

• 50% reduction in cesarean rates*
• 40% reduction in forceps deliveries*
• 25% shorter labours*
• 60% reduction in epidural requests*
• 40% reduction in oxytocin (Pitocin) use*
• better mother-infant bonding*
• 30% reduction in analgesia use*
• reduced post-partum depression*