WHAT IS A DOULA?
The term Doula (pronounced “doola”) comes from an ancient
Greek word loosely translated “in the
service of” or “care giver” and now refers to a woman who provides sympathetic,
informed and experienced lay support to mothers.
The role of the Doula is probably
as old as women giving birth. Doulas may specialize in supporting women through
pregnancy, labour and birth (Birth Doulas) or in the home shortly after birth
(Post-natal Doulas).
Doulas are not
medical professionals and so do not perform clinical tasks, diagnose medical
conditions or give medical advice.