What is a Doula?

Doula (pronounced ‘Doola’) is a Greek word meaning ‘woman-servant or caregiver’. In today’s society it refers to a woman who is experienced in childbirth and can provide informational support to a woman (or couple) in pregnancy and provides continuous physical and emotional support to a woman and her partner during labour, birth and within the immediate period after birth.

A Doula is often said to “mother the mother” - enabling a woman to have the most satisfying and empowered time that she can during pregnancy, birth and the early days as a new mum. This type of support also helps the whole family to relax and enjoy the experience.

There are two types of Doulas:
Birth Doulas; are trained and experienced in childbirth. They have a good knowledge and awareness of female physiology and provide the continuous emotional support a mother and or couple are looking for in childbirth; BUT the doula does not support the mother in a clinical role - that is the job of the midwife/medical staff.
Postnatal Doulas; work offering practical and emotional support to the new mother and father in the home following the birth of baby. With the help of a postnatal doula, a mother can enjoy some of the benefits of a prolonged "lying in" period. This will help her bond with her baby and spend extra time with any older siblings. Our work is about empowering a family to take care of itself and we facilitate this by helping around the house and offering encouragement and suggestions.

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Winnie Rushby Po Box 45 Tewkesbury GL20 6YY Tel:01684 291866 Mob: 07733101572