What is a doula?

A first article by Céline Henry for MotherStories on the role of the Doula, who she is, how it works and how to find one. Enjoy the read.

Have you ever heard of a Doula? She can also be called a birth attendant or a perinatal attendant. Is this it? See? No ? Then we'll help you a little...

Giving birth for the 1st time, or even afterwards, is inevitably an emotional, organizational and physical upheaval... We ask ourselves a thousand questions, we look for information, we need the non-judgmental support of someone with experience who will make herself available and help us develop all our own skills so that we can make our choices to welcome our baby in optimal conditions. As we know, these will greatly influence the child's future life. At the same time, the way in which a woman experiences childbirth will profoundly transform her.

The Doula is a non-medical professional. She provides support in addition to the care you receive from a midwife or doctor. She is trained as a Doula and is responsible for ongoing training. In most cases, she is already a mother. The Doula is there to support the work of medical professionals and to accompany the pregnant woman and her family (spouse, children), so that everyone can have the best possible pregnancy and birth. Her role is to provide support throughout the pregnancy, on the day of delivery and beyond.

The Doula is the family's employee. She is responsible for a wide range of tasks, including helping to set up a birth plan, listening to fears and anxieties, and using her own relaxation techniques. She can answer any questions moms or parents may have on any topic (pregnancy, birth, logistics, mothering, breastfeeding, sexuality...). She helps parents find the resources they need to make the most of these precious moments. She also provides logistical support as needed (meal preparation, domestic chores, childcare, chauffeuring for medical appointments, etc.).

If you're tempted by the idea of being accompanied by a Doula, keep in mind that above all, the "feeling" must come through. You'll be entrusting her with your innermost thoughts, and she'll be on the same wavelength as you. A first meeting to get to know each other is therefore essential before making a commitment, on either side. What's more, each Doula has a particular "color" and different tools (yoga, HypnoNatal®, Rebozo techniques...) that can guide your choice. Don't hesitate to meet with several before taking the plunge!

For your information, there are many ways to become a Doula. Each one chooses her training(s) according to her personality and sensibility. You'll find directories of Doulas on the Internet, usually linked to a Doula association or training organization. But not all of them are listed, and it's sometimes difficult to find their contact details. So don't hesitate to widen your search, consult the parenting associations in your neighborhood/city and ask your midwife!