doula

Doulas are women specially trained to support mothers and her family emotionally and practically during pregnancy, labour, birth and/or after birth so that the whole experience will be more satisfying for everyone. There are many medical researches showing the importance of having a continuous emotional support during labour and birth and the positive influence it has on birth outcomes and bonding with the new baby.
As medical staff are often dealing with multitude of tasks and a team of midwifes working in shifts means it is very difficult for you to have a continuous support from someone you feel comfortable with. The difference with Doulas is that you will be choosing her to be your support; hence you will have time to get to know each other to form a trusting relationship before the labour and she will be there for you as long as you need her. Hence many birth attended by Doula often leads to less complications and happier experience overall.

Doulas believe in mothering the mother; she is there to help you to have an empowering and satisfying experience in becoming or being a mother. Doulas do not give or offer medical advice or support, but she will be there for you to support you in whatever the choices you decide to make. If you decide to have a postnatal doula, again, she will support you to look after the baby, unlike maternity nurse who will take charge in taking care of the baby.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me. There is more information on Doulas available at the links section.