A doula is ideal for mothers who want to look after their babies themselves but who welcome the help and advice traditionally offered by mothers in the days when extended families lived close enough to be constantly on hand. She can go and get the older children from school, do some cleaning or tidy up the house. Because she is trained, she can also give practical advice on caring for a newborn including breastfeeding, winding, sleep patterns, etc. Doulas are not generally medical professionals, although some may have been nurses. They don t generally stay the night like a maternity nurse does.
Doulas are very well known and used in the States but also in Australia and Ireland apparently.
Doulas have recently started to train here in the UK and more and more are becoming available. One doula, who of course is a mother and was trained as a doula, told me how the nurturing of the mother was of paramount importance. A new mother needs understanding and reassurance. A doula will give a new mum a listening ear and unbiaised advice. It is about giving time, patience, friendship and gaining trust.