What is a doula?

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Written By Amanda Figge

dou·la /ˈdo͞olə/ noun A doula is a trained professional who provides continuous physical, emotional, and informational support to a person before, during, and shortly after childbirth. Unlike medical staff, doulas do not perform clinical tasks—they are there to guide, comfort, and advocate.

The Role of a Doula

Childbirth is one of the most powerful experiences in a person's life. It can be empowering, overwhelming, joyful, and intense. A doula is there to walk alongside you through this journey, offering a steady presence and evidence-based guidance based on experience.

While doulas typically do not have formal obstetric training, their expertise lies in understanding the birthing process, recognizing emotional needs, and helping you make informed decisions.

The Four Pillars of Doula Support

According to Evidence Based Birth, doulas provide support through four key pillars:

  • Physical Support: Comfort measures like massage, positioning, breathing techniques, and helping create a calming environment.

  • Emotional Support: Reassurance, encouragement, and a compassionate presence during moments of vulnerability or intensity.

  • Informational Support: Offering evidence-based insights and helping you understand your options throughout labor and delivery.

  • Advocacy: Supporting your voice and preferences in the birth space, helping you communicate effectively with medical staff.

Why Consider a Doula?

Studies have shown that continuous support during labor—especially from someone like a doula—can lead to:

  • Shorter labor durations

  • Reduced need for pain medication or interventions

  • Increased satisfaction with the birth experience

  • Lower rates of cesarean delivery

Whether you're planning a hospital birth, home birth, or something in between, a doula can be a grounding force in an otherwise unpredictable process.

Doula Support by the Numbers

Research consistently shows that having a doula present during childbirth leads to better outcomes for both birthing individuals and babies. Here are some key statistics:

  • 25% decrease in the likelihood of cesarean delivery when continuous labor support is provided by a doula. (EBB)

  • 8% increase in spontaneous vaginal births among those supported by doulas. (EBB)

  • 10% reduction in the use of pain medications during labor. (EBB)

  • Shorter labor durations by an average of 41 minutes when a doula is present. (EBB)

  • Improved breastfeeding outcomes and maternal satisfaction with the birth experience. (ASPE)

  • Greater equity in maternal health outcomes, especially among marginalized communities, when doulas are integrated into care teams. (AJOG)

Amanda Figge