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What is a doula? How is a doula different from a midwife?

A doula, from the Greek meaning “woman’s servant,” is a lay person who is trained to accompany and assist women and their partners throughout labor and birth. Usually, the doula has had children, but this is not a requirement. She is knowledgeable in ways to promote normal birth and uses non-drug methods of pain relief. Although the midwife offers support using the same knowledge and methods, she is professionally educated and is responsible for clinical tasks (such as vaginal exams and checking the fetal heart) and decision making. The doula, on the other hand, has no clinical responsibilities; she is primarily there to offer information, comfort and a constant, calming presence. Studies show that the presence of a doula is associated with lower rates of intervention. Some doulas limit their practice to the support of families after the baby comes home—helping the mother with breastfeeding advice, doing light housekeeping tasks, and caring for older children. For more information:

www.dona.org

www.alace.org