"Doula", a Greek word meaning "woman servant", has come to refer to a supportive companion (other than a friend or a loved one) professionally trained to provide labor support. A Doula is trained to provide physical and emotional comfort. A Doula uses her knowledge and experience to explain what is happening during each stage of childbirth, and she can help to explain the risks and benefits of any procedures presented to the laboring mother and partner so they may make informed decisions.

The benefits of Doulas, for both mother and baby, are numerous and well documented. Shorter labor and less need for interventions such as forceps, vacuum extraction, and cesarean are among the many benefits of Doula assistance.

The Scope and Role of a Doula

• A Doula will not discourage the mother from her choices. She will always respect and facilitate those choices. A Doula does not have her own agenda. This is your birth.
  
• A Doula does not perform medical tasks such as fetal heart monitoring, palpitation and vaginal exams.
  
• A Doula cannot make decisions for you. She will help you in getting the information from your midwife or doctor and nurses so that you will be able to make informed decisions.
  

Doula Services Include:

• A Free Initial Consultation
• Three Prenatal Visits (at your home)
  
• Assistance in writing a "Birth Preferences" list and Prenatal Information As Requested
• 24/7 On-call Status Starting at 37 Weeks
• Continuous Labor Support Beginning Either at Home or Hospital
• Postpartum Support to Facilitate Bonding and Nursing
• 24 and 72 Hour Phone Call
• 2 and 4-6  Week Home Visits
• 24-Hour Phone Help
• Birth Story Written Documenting Your Birth Experience
• Additional Services Available Upon Request