Doula Facts...

What is a Doula?

• A doula is your attendant for pregnancy, birth & the first few weeks home
• A doula is an integral part of the birthing team & works for you, not the hospital or your caregiver
• A doula "mothers the mother"

Why use a Doula?

• A doula is knowledgeable & experienced with pregnancy, labour , birth & mother and infant care
• A doula provides continuous physical & emotional support, offers you encouragement & information & helps with practical tasks
• A doula empowers the mother, helps you make informed choices & increases your confidence
• Studies show a doula during labour has a positive effect on birth outcomes including:
  • less length of labour
  • less need for pain medication
  • less interventions including forceps & oxytocin
  • less chance of caesarean birth
  • less use of epidurals
  • more breastfeeding & bonding
  • more birth satisfaction

When do I need a doula?

• During pregnancy:
  • for prenatal education
  • for planning and preparation
  • for in-home prenatal care
  • for high risk pregnancies
  • if restricted to bed-rest
  • if prenatal mother care is needed
• During labour and delivery for continuous emotional, physical & informational support
• Postpartum for the first weeks after birth for mother and infant care:
  • for breastfeeding education & support
  • for information & encouragement

Where are services provided?

• In your home and/or the hospital or birthing centre
• In Halton (Milton, Burlington, Oakville, Georgetown, Acton), East Wellington (Guelph, Cambridge, Rockwood, Erin) and Peel (Mississauga)

For related services provided by Concerning Childbirth See HERE.