What is a birth doula?

A birth doula is a person who assists a mother through labor and delivery by providing support and information. A doula acts as an advocate for birthing people and empowers them to take control of the birthing process—both in terms of their own bodies, but also management and navigation of the experience with medical care providers.

Why it matters.

When you have a trusted doula by your side, you have someone to lean on emotionally and physically. A birth Doula can help coach a birthing person though the difficult parts of labor as well as provide comfort and focus. Having both physical and emotional support available makes a big difference for everyone involved.

A doula is not a medical provider but a good doula can help families understand the process that they are beginning and the choices that will be presented to them along the way.

By preparing for and understanding the birthing process, mothers and families feel more relaxed and not overwhelmed by what can feel like events that are happening to them rather than with them as a unique individual or family.

When we understand the process we can ask the right questions that will help us to feel empowered and able embrace the idea of the birthing process as our own unique story. It’s then that we can find joy in our journey, and our incredible accomplishments.

This post was written by Tamra Giffin RN, CD(DONA), CMT, LC. For over 20 years Tamra has educated, supported and guided families through pregnancy childbirth and the postpartum period. Tamra offers prenatal, birth, postpartum guidance and care, massage and lactation counseling. For more information visit: https://www.birthjoyofboulderdoulatamragiffin.com