"Doula" (pronounced "doola") is a Greek word meaning "woman servant or caregiver". It now refers to an experienced woman who offers information, emotional and practical support to a woman (or couple) before, during and after childbirth.

As birth doulas we offer:

* a reassuring presence

* encouragement and wisdom

* emotional and practical support, throughout your pregnancy, labour, birth and post-natally.

* information that is relevant to you and your needs

When a doula is present during and after childbirth, women report greater satisfaction with their birth experience, make more positive assessments of their babies, have fewer caesareans and requests for medical intervention, and less post-natal depression.

A doula believes in “mothering the mother” - enabling a woman to have the most satisfying and empowered time that she can during pregnancy, birth and the early days as a new mum. This type of support also helps the whole family to relax and enjoy the experience.

A doula is not medically trained, she does not replace the midwife or make decisions for you or intervene in your medical care. She provides information and emotional support, while respecting a woman’s decisions.

To contact us please email: mail@sheffieldbirthdoula.com


Photo © Michelle Barnes