The term “Doula” originated from Greece (Doule) and translates to “female servant”. These female servants were known to provide assistance to women during childbirth and through the postpartum period. The term re-entered the modern lexicon around the 1960’s and was defined as a non-medical individual that provides physical and emotional support during childbirth.

Today, Doulas complement the care provided by doctors and nurses and can serve growing families in a variety of ways including building relationships prior to delivery, being present and encouraging during delivery, applying pain relieving techniques during delivery, and assisting the family postpartum. Some doulas provide childbirth education courses and placenta services as well!