Definition of a Birth Doula
A birth doula is a support person trained in the needs of the family during pregnancy and childbirth. The doula offers non-judgmental support, guidance, evidence-based education and practical hands-on support during childbirth including comfort measures. Doula originates from the Greek word meaning woman servant. A doula recognizes the profound impact of childbirth on the mother.
A doula does not provide medical care, clinical tasks such cervical checks or fetal heart tones and does not speak on behalf of the client.
The Certified Birth Doula is trained in 5 Core Competencies:
- Physiology of Childbirth
- Common Interventions and Evidence Based Care
- Comfort Measures for Childbirth
- Breastfeeding
- Communicating with Medical Care Providers and Clients Utilizing Emotional Intelligence