Doula is a Greek word whose definition has come to mean a woman who helps other women. The word has further evolved to mean a woman experienced in childbirth who provides continuous physical, emotional, and informational support to the mother before, during, and after childbirth.   ~ The Doula Book by Klaus, Kennell and Klaus

A doula:

• Understands the emotional impact of birth on a family.
• Helps the mother prepare for and carry out the plans for her birth.
• Provides continuous emotional support, physical comfort, and information for the mother and father during labor and birth.
• Facilitates communication between the parents and birth attendants.
• Allows and helps the father to participate and help his wife according to his comfort level and desire.

Studies have shown that when doulas attend birth, labors are shorter with fewer complications, babies are healthier and they breastfeed more easily.   ~ DONA International