What is a doula?

The first question I get asked after I tell someone I’m a doula is, what even is a doula? Looking at DONA (Doulas of North America) International’s website, they define a doula as ‘a trained professional who provides continuous physical, emotional and informational support to their client before, during and shortly after childbirth to help them achieve the healthiest, most satisfying experience possible.’

To me and my practice, a doula is someone that holds space for an individual to be sure they feel safe, heard, and are cared for in one of their most vulnerable and transformative times in their life. A doula is an empathetic, nurturing person who listens and provides support in a variety of ways to new parents. A doula recognizes that birth and postpartum are sacred events and their role is to honour and protect the mother’s journey.

This could look like so many different things as every family has different needs. It could mean providing resources throughout your pregnancy to help you come to an educated decision about your care. Or it could be during labor I help your partner guide you through a breathing exercise while doing a hip squeeze to provide comfort during a surge. Maybe its doing some laundry for you while you hold your baby quietly in the days after birth. Being a doula means showing up for you however that may look in such a vulnerable time to make sure you get the best outcome possible for you.

In a time when our culture values hyper-independence the days of new parents having a village are dwindling away. Having a doula means that you aren’t alone and are supported when there is no one else. Maybe you’ve moved away from your friends and family, or you’ve gone no contact with toxic family members to make sure your child doesn’t have to experience that. Whatever your situation may be, a doula will join your inner most circle free of judgement and make sure that you have the support in the ways that you need it most.