De Anne in labour with Xena

Labour support has been given a new name - DOULA. Doula is an ancient Greek word for a woman experienced in childbirth who serves another woman during her journey into motherhood.  One of the best Doula's I know, Janice Battiste, has not given birth herself but has attended over 70 births and is a compassionate, educated individual.

In France a midwife is called 'sage femme' wise woman. Whatever name is used or you want to call them, it is women assisting women in one of the most powerful, fulfilling times in their lives.

A doula is very much like a midwife except that she is does not have the medical expertise to deliver the baby.  She is there to assist the mother focus and coach her during this time.

The Doula will work with both parents or alone with the mother in preparing and producing a birth plan to ensure an optimum positive birthing experience. It is important that a bond is established with the mother, her partner and the Doula so that a great birthing team is built. They will work together to make the environment for birthing exactly how they want it to be. There are more choice now than what they were in the past in North American hospitals.  If the birth is in a hospital the Doula will assist in creating the best possible setting needed for the birth.

During the birthing time  she will coach the mother with breathing and relaxation techniques, offer her massage and comfort her when needed.  It is important for the Doula to be able to read the Mother and respond to her needs at that very moment.

The Doula does not replace the doctor, nurse, midwife or partner but instead works in tandem with them to ensure that women have an empowered birth.   In this role the Doula has helped Mother the Mother and taken some of the pressure and fear from her partner so that they can both remember this experience as miraculous.

Being a Doula is a fulfilling role in life's journey. To be present when another human being takes their first breathe of life is an honour.