What is a doula?
A doula is a trained person who provides emotional, physical and informational support to you and your support team during labor.
Doulas can provide:
- Emotional support and encouragement
- Assistance and facilitate communication between you and the hospital staff
- Attention to physical comfort through techniques such as massage and assistance with breathing
Studies show having a doula may decrease:
- Cesarean section (C-section)
- Length of labor
- Negative childbirth experiences
- Use of pain relief medication during labor
If you’d like to learn more about doulas at Providence Saint Joseph Medical Center, contact our Maternal Education department at 818-847-6496.
