Derived from an ancient Greek word describing a woman who helps other women, the word ‘doula’ has now come to mean a woman who supports other women through birth and beyond. For centuries women have been supporting other women through the experience of giving birth and nurturing their newborn baby.  Because our culture no longer easily accommodates mothers being supported by their female family and friends during pregnancy, birth and postpartum, the concept of other women formally providing this service has evolved.

Postpartum doulas offer nurturing guidance, education, and breastfeeding support to new families in their home. Adjusting to the birth of a baby or babies is a major life transition. It is much easier when a family is supported by someone who has had babies of their own and understands the adjustments that the parents are going through.

Birth doulas offer comforting emotional support and knowledge related to techniques designed to promote progress during labor.  Birth can be a positive and life-changing experience for a woman as she feels her body working to bring forth new life. Having a doula can make the difference between a great birth experience and a disappointing one.

A doula is a mentor who answers your questions and provides much-needed assurance in a gentle, nonjudgmental way.