A support for the whole family
Doulas provide continuity of care and give emotional, informational and practical support throughout pregnancy, labour and after the birth of a baby to you, your partner and to the whole family.
Birth doulas support you during your pregnancy, birth and in the immediate postnatal time, while postnatal doulas provide flexible support to you after your baby is born. Some doulas offer both types of support.
Every birth story is different, and the birthing and parenting choices made are unique. Our job as doulas is to protect and advocate for your wishes. We believe that everyone deserves a safe, supported, positive birth and postnatal experience, and the opportunity to give their baby the best possible start.
A birth doula can also support you in the following ways:
Meet with you in pregnancy to build trust and rapport, and learn how to best support you.
Provide balanced evidence based information for you to make your own informed decisions about your maternity care.
Be a constant support to you in labour at home or hospital however you give birth.
Provide emotional support which can inspire confidence and calm.
Give practical support which may include encouraging you to find birth positions and movements that make you feel more comfortable, or by offering massage and touch to promote relaxation.
Encourage you to self advocate and will support you and your birth preferences.
Give space to you and your partner to welcome your baby.
A postnatal doula can support you in these ways:
Give you confidence in caring for your baby.
Listen and help you reflect on your birth and postnatal experience.
Provide assurance and encouragement to you as a new parent.
Offer practical, informational and emotional support to the whole family.
Help you find time to rest and recover.
Supports you to feed your baby, including offering help with breastfeeding.
Signpost you to support networks such as baby groups, online groups or health care professionals.
