Duties
Doula (pronounced doola) is a Greek word meaning woman servant or caregiver. It now refers to an experienced woman who offers emotional and practical support to a woman or couple before, during and/or after childbirth.
A doula believes in 'mothering the mother'. She is an experienced care- giver who can support the woman through her pregnancy, during labour and in the postnatal period. Although Doula UK members are trained and have experience of birth and labour, doulas from other organisations may not have given birth.
My main role is one of support for the new mother and this can mean spending time with her, chatting and having a cup of tea. It's nice for her to be asked how she is and how she is feeling. My duties vary from family to family depending on their individual needs, but in general I will help with breastfeeding, help allay any fears, assist with housework and encourage the mother to care for herself and the baby.
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