How do you feel about labour?  What sort of birth do you want?  A birth doula is an experienced mother, a trained childbirth companion who gives you emotional and practical support during your labour and birth.  Your birth doula will encourage you to learn about labour, prepare for the birth, put together a birth plan and help with preparations for your baby.  Before the birth you will get to know your doula and build a relationship.     

Your doula will stay with you throughout the labour.  A continuous, reassuring presence, so you feel safe to let go.  She will remain calm and positive and give support throughout.  She will offer advice, suggest positions, keeping you focused with the aim of creating an environment that is most conducive for the birth, peaceful, calm, loving and harmonious.  It is important to understand that your doula is there for you and your partner and will not interfere with the medical staff and their ultimate decisions. After the birth your doula will visit you and your family to ensure that all is well to help with feeding, any questions you may have, for emotional and practical support.