Sierra Doulas - Welcome! Supporting women and their partners through pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum experience.

“If a doula were a drug, it would be unethical not to use it.”
–Dr. John H. Kennell, pediatrician & father

What is a doula?

Doula is a greek word that means to serve. It has come to mean a woman that provides labor support. During labor and delivery, doulas provide uninterrupted support for you and your partner, beginning at your home and staying through delivery.

A doula:

  • Is constantly focused on the comfort
    of you and your partner
  • Helps you relax
  • Helps you concentrate
  • Suggests position changes to speed
    your labor and relieve discomfort
  • Breathes with you
  • Helps make the environment safe
    and comfortable for you
  • Provides information

A doula differs from a midwife in that she does not provide any medical care. She helps through prenatal education, as well as providing physical and emotional support for the mother/couple. There are many benefits to having a doula present at your birth. While a doula provides physical support and coaching for the mother during a birth, she does not intrude on the special role of the father or partner. The birth attendant/doula is not meant to replace the support system of the mother, but to enhance it.

Doulas are trained to provide emotional support and coaching during labor. She is there for guidance, encouragement, and for practical suggestions to help labor progress. Most importantly she is there to provide calm assurance and build your trust and confidence in yourself and the birth process.

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