What is a doula

"If a doula were a drug, it would be unethical not to use it" - Dr. John Kennell The term Doula (rhymes with hula) is Greek in orgin and translates to "a woman who serves."  A doula is a experienced trained birth professional who offers continuous physical, emotional and, informational support to mother and family during labor, delivery, and the postpartum period.  Studies have shown that when a doula attends a birth it:

• Result in shorter labors with fewer complications
• Lessen the need for medical interventions (forceps, vacuum extraction, pitocin)
• Lowers the mothers request for pain medication and or epidurals
• Reduces negative feelings about child birth experience.
• Has also been shown that parents feel more prepared and secure and adapt better to parenthood

**A few articles on the importance of the doula: 5 Reasons Dads Should Demand A Doula http://www.pregnancy.about.com/od/doula1/a/dads-and-doulas.htm Doulas Aren't Just For Hippie Home Births http://www.thestir.cafemom.com/pregnancy/115924/doulas_arent_just_for_hippie?utm_medium=sm&utm_source=facebook&utm_content=natural_fanpage All about the doula business-By a Seattle doula http://www.seattlewomanmagazine.com/articles/may10-3.htm#murfin