Are you looking for a doula?

To find one of the many doulas who trained with us across the UK, follow the link below to start your search, or read on to find out more about doulas.

Medical research has shown time and again the importance of emotional support during labour and birth to enhance our experience of birth as well as positively influence the birth outcome and support the bonding process. Nevertheless, the great technological advances in the obstetric field in the last century have mainly focused on the physical safety and pain relief of the labouring woman, leaving her, the baby and father often with very little emotional support. For more medical reviews, click here.

Doulas are women specially trained to give emotional and practical support during the pregnancy, labour, birth and postnatal period, leading to more satisfying and empowered experiences, and a decrease in interventions, caesarean sections, postnatal depression and an increase in breastfeeding success. More and more women and couples are choosing to have doula support.

What can a birth doula do for you?
Through face-to-face discussions, a doula will support you in making a birth plan so that you can make clear decisions about how you would like your labour and delivery to happen, she will show you breathing and relaxation exercises for both parents. It is important for the parent(s) and the doula to meet a few times before the birth to establish a rapport. She will be present during the labour and birth, support the parents during the more intense part of the labour and care for all 3 immediately after the birth. She will come and visit the new family at least once after the birth. It is important to understand three key differences between a midwife and a doula:
- a doula does not have a medical role
- a doula will be there throughout your labour HOWEVER long
- a doula is not associated with a hospital, doctor or midwife and is there for YOU.

What can a postnatal doula do for you ?
She will work for you and your family by the hour. As every situation is different, together you will discuss how she can best help you as a postnatal doula. The sessions will usually last between 2 and 4 hours and can even be in the evenings or on Saturdays. In some cases doulas will also work nights.

What do parents think of their experience of using a doula?
In a survey carried out by Doula UK (the not for profit UK doula association), 100% of mothers and fathers surveyed said they would hire a birth doula again and recommend it to their friends! Have a look at my references to see some quotes.

When should you contact a doula?
Anytime really. You can contact a doula before being pregnant to discuss the services offered or a few days before your expected delivery.... And anytime in between. For postnatal work, you can of course contact her as soon as you have had the baby (though she may already be booked so it is best to book early). Contracts and appraisal : Before you hire a doula, you will be discussing the service that you need and will be offered. A contract might be signed. Once the doula has completed her assignment she may give you an evaluation form that you may choose to fill-in. She can also offer an evaluation form to the midwife or health visitor (for postnatal work) in order for them to also voice their views on her work.

How much does it cost?
Have a look at the pricing page. Each doula sets her own prices, depending on her experience and the service she offers.

Research has shown that having a doula present at a birth :

• Shortens first-time labour by an average of 2 hours
• Decreases the chance of caesarean section by 50%
• Decreases the need for pain medication
• Helps fathers participate with confidence
• Increases success in breast-feeding

(Findings taken from "Mothering the Mother" by Klaus, Kennell & Klaus, 1993)

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Here are some vital statistics:

Kennell J, Klaus M, McGrath S, Robertson S, Hinkley C. JAMA 1991 May 1;265(17):2197-201