FAQ

What is a Doula?Doula is a greek word meaning woman caregiver. A Doula is experienced in offering emotional and practical support before, during and after childbirth. In previous times women within the family would help, support and offer their wisdom. Nowadays with the rise in hospital births the Doula offers the continuous and reassuring support that has been lost. A Doula will do all she can to ensure the experience of birth is a positive one. Research has shown that having a Doula present at your birth:- • Shortens first-time labour by an average of 2 hours • Decreases the chance of caesarean section by 50% • Decreases the need for pain medication • Helps fathers participate with confidence • Increases success in breastfeeding
What are some of the benefits of having a Doula at your birth? The benefits of having a Doula are shown here in the results of the 2008 UK Doula Survey -• 21% gave birth at home (compared to 2% nationally) • 27% laboured in a birth pool • 35% of labours were under 6 hours • 72% of labours were under 12 hours • Nearly 50% fewer caesareans (14% compared to 26.6% NHS - Gtr London demographic) • 50% fewer epidurals (16% compared to 33% nationally) • 65% fewer inductions (7% compared to 20% nationally) • 96% breastfed at birth (compared to 76% nationally) • 6% where the doula was the sole birth partner Study of 436 births (47% first time mothers) • 84% breastfed for 6 weeks • 79% breastfed for 12 weeks /(higher than NHS average at birth)/ Study of 224 families supported postnatally What is a Birth Doula? A Birth Doula supports the mother and her partner during childbirth, supporting their birth choices. A Doula is not medically trained and cannot offer advice but she has a deep and practical understanding of the physiology and processes of birth and provides consistent support and advocacy throughout. What is a Postnatal Doula? A Postnatal Doula will provide support and encouragement in order to build your confidence in your new role. She will look after you, whilst you look after and get to know your new baby. This can include breastfeeding support, cooking a light meal, household tasks, holding the baby, or just being there to listen.