What is a Doula?

I have always been passionate about pregnancy and babies and decided to train as a Doula when I realised what a huge amount of significant information and support I already could offer wrapped up in my other work.          This was a natural progression. 

Nutrition is vital to expectant and breast feeding Mums or those planning a pregancy, and achieveing balance within the body and the best health and energy possible is important for all of us. 

A doula (/ˈduːlə/), also known as a birth coach,  is a non-medical person who assists a woman before, during, or after childbirth, to provide educational and emotional support to both parents, and with practical help if needed. Unlike midwives, doulas are not medical professionals and therefore cannot administer medication. Doulas are typically certified with many courses taking over a year to complete. Practical training is also involved to become certified.   Continuous support during birth from a person outside the mother's family or social circle, such as a doula, is now associated with reduced mortality rates, improved overall health of the mother and the baby, shorter labour time, reduced risk of a C-Section, and a lesser need for medical interventions such as instrumental delivery or pain relief.   Support from a doula may also reduce mothers' possible negative feelings about their birthing experience.  Some doulas provide postpartum support, for example help with siblings, assisting with housework, cooking, and offering help with learning to breast feed.