What is a Doula?

There is no one definition that could define all doulas as no two doulas are alike, and it is a term that continues to evolve.  Below are some common definitions. 

In her article Evidence On: Doulas, Rebecca Dekker shares the definition of a birth doula from Dr. Christine Morton, author of the book Birth Ambassadors. Dr Morton States, " a birth doula is a companion who supports a birthing person during labor and birth. Birth doulas are trained to provide continuous, one-on-one care, as well as information, physical support, and emotional support to birthing persons and their partners."

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Childbirth and Postpartum Professionals Association states labor doulas "fill an important role in providing emotional, physical, and evidence-based, informational support to the birthing client and their family before, during, and after birth."

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It is also important to note that there are many types of doulas. Most common doulas are known as birth, labor or postpartum doula. However, full-spectrum doulas can also offer support in adoption, abortion, bereavement, fertility, and foster care and beyond. 

I provide services as a Certified Labor Doula including postpartum doula support and a bereavement doula in-training through StillBirthday.

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Check out this great resource below all about Evidence on: Doulas in this well-written and researched article by Rebecca Dekker at Evidenced Based Birth.