The Doula’s role is to support the birthing woman and her partner. She should provide information for the couple; both before birth to help them prepare and during birth, if needed, to help them make informed decisions.
The doula provides comfort. She makes suggestions to help the mother cope with the discomforts of labor, helps with breathing and relaxation techniques, as well as movement and positioning to aid in relief.
She comforts the laboring mother emotionally – providing positive affirmations and cheering her on when it seems to be getting tough. She also knows when to just be still and quiet and provide a simple, gentle touch. The doula is comfortable working actively with a mother or providing a calming presence for a couple. She allows the partner to participate as much as he is comfortable.
