Doulas are becoming more popular with expectant parents and recognized as valued members of the maternity health care team. Almost 1400 doulas have completed DONA s respected certification process demonstrating their ability to provide the highest quality labor support to birthing women and their families. A doula never leaves a laboring woman alone, no matter how long the journey to birth may take. She understands the emotions and physiology of normal birth and is trained to assist with relaxation, pain coping techniques, effective positions and movements to help labor progress. She can facilitate communication between the laboring woman, her partner and her medical caregivers.
Fathers often feel more relaxed knowing they can rely on a doula s experience and knowledge.
Studies show that with continuous doula support women have shorter labors, fewer complications, and healthier babies. The benefits of doula care may go far beyond the birthing room. Evidence also suggests that having a doula at birth facilitates mother-infant attachment, encourages breastfeeding and reduces the likelihood of postpartum depression. Several professional groups have recognized the non-medical care that doulas provide. Most labor doulas have an independent or group practice and are hired directly by the parents.