What is a Doula?
The word 'doula' comes from the greeks, it means "woman servant or caregiver". A doula believes in “mothering 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.
The doula comes in three catergories:
- Antenatal Doula
- Birth Doula
- Postnatal Doula
Role of the birth doula
A birth doula provides emotional and physical support, for mother and partner throught the entire labour, delivery and to provide immeadiate postnatal support.
Role of the postnatal doula
The first few weeks as a new mother can be daunting, isolating and many mums do not have the support nearby. This is where a postnatal doula comes in, she is a professional, experienced and practical person who comes into the family home to assist and support the mother and her family. She is employed by the family to work for the first few weeks/months the mother may need her assistance. A postnatal doulas role is to 'nurture the new mother', this is done by offering practical tips on baby care, light housework, care of siblings, collecting shopping, supporting breastfeeding and being a key listener.
