Doula: "A woman who serves"

A doula provides emotional, physical, and informational support during the pregnancy and birth (doulas do not provide medical care).  Doulas are formally trained on the birth process, comfort measures, aspects prenatal care and are familiar with options regarding medical care and types of deliveries in the area. They help you create and stick to your birth plan. The services your doula provides are very personalized to you and what you desire.

The evidence says YES! According to Evidence Based Birth continual support in labor results in the following: 
 

• 39% decrease in the risk of Cesarean

• 15% increase in the likelihood of a spontaneous vaginal birth

• 10% decrease in the use of any medications for pain relief

• Shorter labors by 41 minutes on average

• 38% decrease in the baby’s risk of a low five-minute Apgar score

• 31% decrease in the risk of being dissatisfied with the birth experience

No! A doula can never replace the important role your husband plays. Pregnancy, labor, and birth are deeply personal seasons of life that are shared by you and your husband. As you prepare to grow your family, you and your husband get to work together, support each other, and grow together. A doula's role is to come alongside both of you as a resource and encouragement. 

I serve in hospital, birth center, or home birth settings. 

Like an OB-GYN, a midwife is a medical provider. A doula does not provide medical care but focuses on physical, emotional, and informational support.

Your midwife and doula are both a part of your birth team and together can provided well-rounded complimentary care.