top of page

What is
a doula?

The meaning of the word doula has evolved to mean birth companion, to put it simply. We provide continuous support for the whole family through pregnancy, birth and the early weeks of parenthood.

Doo-la!

“A doula
will elevate your voice”

A doula will provide your family
with emotional and practical support, encouragement and reassurance, and evidence based information. We will not replace but compliment and work alongside your birthing team, such as your midwives, obstetrician, and partner.

​

Whether it is a planned caesarean birth, a waterbirth at home or a physiological birth in a midwifery led unit, doulas are prepared to support a birthing person and their family through any labour and birth, it is not a one size fits all approach.

​

A positive birth does not mean an easy one, but it does mean you had choices, were respected, made the decisions and you owned your birth.

Being a doula is what I was meant to do, I trained with the Developing Doulas in 2017, and I am a recognised birth and postnatal doula with Doula UK.

​

My philosophy is to be the calm in
the room and to hold space for people so they can explore the intricacies of their parenting journey. I work in Bath and the wider surrounding area to support families.

​

You can read some evidence
on doulas here.

a black and white photo of a woman in labour. She is leaning on a sofa , resting her hands in her head. She is calm.

While doulas are not there to change outcomes, there is growing evidence that having a birth or postnatal doula brings a number of tangible benefits. While this research is important, it’s the less tangible benefits of having a non-judgemental companion during a life-altering event that most women remember and value.

an illustration of a family standing together. The woman is holding their baby and the partner has one hand on her shoulder and the other on the shoulder of their other young child.

Research has shown having a doula present at birth:

an illustration of a sand timer.
an illustration of a torso. You can see the scar from a caesarean birth.
an illustration of a selection of medicine bottles.
an illustration of a man smiling wearing glasses.
an illustration of a woman holding her baby to her breast to feed them.
an illustration of a nursery mobile. It has clouds and rain drops hanging from it.

Shortens first-time labour by an average of 2 hours

Decreases the chance of a caesarean section by 50%

Decreases the need for pain medication

Helps
partners participate with confidence

Increases success in breastfeeding

Decreases
risk of PND

Source: “Mothering the Mother”, Klaus, Kennell & Klaus 1993.

bottom of page