A
doula (
/ˈduːlə/,[SUP]
[1][/SUP] also known as a labour coach[SUP]
[2][/SUP] and originating from the
Ancient Greek word δούλη meaning female slave[SUP]
[3][/SUP]), is a nonmedical person who assists a woman before, during, or after
childbirth, as well as her partner and/or family by providing information, physical assistance, and emotional support.[SUP]
[1][/SUP] The provision of continuous support during labour by doulas (as well as nurses, family, or friends) is associated with improved maternal and fetal health and a variety of other benefits.[SUP]
[1][/SUP][SUP]
[4]
[/SUP]The overall goal of a doula is for the mother to feel safe and comfortable, enhancing the goal of doctors and nurses which is to ensure a safe delivery for mother and child. Doulas have no
clinical role, duties or decision making, deferring instead to nurses or doctors.[SUP]
[6][/SUP]
The kinds of support provided during
childbirth may include physical assistance and comfort (massage, maintaining a supporting posture or providing water), emotional support (providing company, encouragement or simply talking in a soothing tone of voice), information (advice or the progress of the childbirth), and acting as an advocate for the woman undergoing childbirth (suggesting options or supporting the woman's decisions to a medical team).[SUP]
[1][/SUP] Doulas may also be involved during pregnancy and
after birth.[SUP]
[1][/SUP]
A doula is normally selected when the mother is approximately eight months pregnant.[SUP]
[2][/SUP] Continuity of support by the same person is thought to be an important aspect of the relationship between doula and mother.[SUP]
[3][/SUP] Doulas may be found in hospital- or community-based programs as well as private practice and may be reimbursed by insurance companies or out-of-pocket by clients.[SUP]
[1][/SUP][SUP]
[6][/SUP] They are more popular among older, affluent parents in larger cities, and can charge up to $1,000 for three visits (before, during and after birth).[SUP]
[7][/SUP]
It has also been suggested that doulas or doula-like practitioners may have a role in caring for critically ill adults in
geriatric care.[SUP]
[1][/SUP]