what is a doula and why should I hire one?

Doula Support
Written By Catherine Traer

What is a Doula? Understanding our Role and Impact

Before diving into the role of a doula, it’s important to understand the origin of the term. The word “doula” comes from ancient Greek, meaning “woman who serves.” Today, doulas are trained professionals who provide emotional, physical, advocacy, and informational support during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. Beyond birth doulas, there are other specialized types, including fertility doulas, postpartum doulas, and grief doulas, all serving unique roles.

Doula vs. Midwife: What’s the Difference?

One of the most frequently asked questions doulas receive is: “What’s the difference between a doula and a midwife?” The distinction is critical:

  • Doulas are not medically trained. They focus on offering continuous, non-clinical support to birthing persons and their families. This includes:

    • Physical Support: Techniques for pain relief (e.g., massage, counterpressure) and suggesting labor positions.

    • Emotional Support: Reassurance, encouragement, and comfort during labor, to the birthing person or even to their partner.

    • Advocacy Support: Helping you feel empowered to make informed decisions about your care, help amplify your voice when you feel unheard.

    • Informational Support: Helping guide you through the different phases of labor, find evidence-based information about options, help explain common health care procedures.

  • Midwives, on the other hand, are medically trained professionals who oversee prenatal care, monitor fetal health, deliver babies, and address any medical concerns during labor and delivery. While midwives are responsible for the health and safety of you and your baby, they often have other patients to attend to and may not be able to provide continuous, one-on-one support during your entire labor.

Your doula, however, is there exclusively for you—from the moment you feel you need them until well after your baby is born.

Why Hire a Doula?

Still wondering if you need a doula? The biggest argument in favour of hiring one is the significant improvement in birth outcomes. Evidence-based research shows:

  • A reduction in the cesarean rate (from 25% with a partner alone to 13% with a doula present).

  • Shorter labor durations (an average of 41 minutes less).

  • Higher rates of satisfaction with the birthing experience, with families reporting more positive emotions and reduced dissatisfaction.

  • Improved support for birthing partners, helping them feel more confident and involved​

Empowering Birth Experiences

The ultimate goal of a doula is to ensure you feel confident, empowered, and supported throughout your birthing journey. From holding your hand and encouraging you during every contraction to providing comfort and reassurance, a doula is a consistent presence in what can be an unpredictable process.

If you're considering a doula for your birth team, know that this decision is rooted in research and proven to create better experiences for both birthing persons and their families.

Source: Rebecca Dekker, RN and Sara Ailshire, MA. “Evidence on: Doulas”, Evidence Based Birth, 2024.

Catherine Traer