WHAT IS A DOULA?

Here, we explain what a doula is and how they can help you…

So, what is a doula?

A doula is a person who offers support and assistance throughout your pregnancy, birth and during early parenthood. A birth doula specialises in pregnancy, where as a postnatal doula will support you at home after the birth. Some doulas will do both. 

Although primarily there to support the mother, a doula can also help support your partner and family.

A doula will not…

A doula will not have any formal medical or clinical training but will have experience of birth.

Some may also have undertaken a Doula course, which gives some basic training,

What does a doula do? 

The majority of doulas work privately and are employed by their clients. This means you decide how often you want to see them. A few doulas are employed by the NHS, or you may be able to find one through Social Services.

If you are on a low income you may be able to get one through the Doula UK Access Fund, which helps women who could not otherwise afford one.

How a doula could help you

A doula is perfect if you don’t live close to your family and friends and would like a bit of support throughout your pregnancy and birth.

A birth doula’s role is to support you and your birth choices, to offer you confidence and help you to achieve the kind of birth you want.

There is evidence that having a birth doula can reduce intervention rates, shorten labour and improve the condition of the baby at birth. Postnatally, a doula increases the likelihood of successful breastfeeding. 

During labour your doula can also help you to understand the choices your medical team offer and help you keep calm and focused; they can also speak for you if you’re unable to – for example during contractions. 

When do you need one?

Many doulas help women when they are near to their birth, throughout labour and just after the baby is born. However, you can make use of a doula’s services at any time during your pregnancy and afterwards – it’s up to you and your doula.

Doulas after the birth

You may be daunted at the thought of going home with your new baby, especially if your time in hospital was very short after having had your baby. That’s where a doula can come in really useful at helping you become confident as a new mother and ensuring your needs are met too.

Types of doulas

Labour and birth doulas

The labour and birth doula will typically meet with the mum-to-be several timse before the due date to become families with one another and learn about the mother's preferences and goals for her birth. The doula will be on call for the birth and will join the mother during labour at her request. The doula will provide constant encouragement and support for the new mum until the baby has been born and everyone is comfortable and resting.

Postpartum doula

A postpartum doula will provide support and help to the new mum and other members of the family during the first few weeks after the birth. The doula's role may include breastfeeding support, emotional support or even physical support in preparing meals and childcare for older children.

How to find a doula that’s right for you…

When you contact a doula, it’s important that you get on well and you feel comfortable with them. So, make an appointment to meet them before you sign up for their services.