0 a person, usually a woman, who is not medically trained but who gives help and support to a woman during pregnancy and during and after the birth of her baby
Within maternity care, neither continuity of care, doula support in labor, nurse support in labor, nor postnatal debriefing by a midwife can be recommended as strategies for reducing postnatal depression.
The research also examined how doulas added a positive element to the birth experience.
After raising 3 kids, working as a registered nurse, lactation consultant, doula and midwife she founded the company in 1999.
They fulfill tasks similar to those of postpartum doulas.
Occasionally confused with nannies, family life doulas are ongoing, long-term sources of support within a family structure.
Some hospitals have created internal doula training programs to reduce conflict between doulas and medical staff.
Women with less education, lower incomes, less preparation for childbirth and those lacking social support may experience greater benefits from doula care than other groups.
Research also supports the use of female friends or relatives, after minimal training, as a low-cost alternative to professional doulas.
