Doula comes from the Greek douleia and means servant of the woman.
In Germany, doulas are still a rarity and relatively unknown. In the USA, the presence of a doula has been common for years, and their importance is also growing in Europe and Switzerland.
In the past, pregnant women were accompanied during childbirth by other women with experience in childbirth. Often, this was a whole circle of women: their own sisters, sisters-in-law, mothers, grandmothers, and midwives were all present. So there was always someone available to talk to.
Unfortunately, the reality is quite different now. Due to the loss of large families, the transfer of births to hospitals, and the shortage of midwives and medical staff, a woman in labor is often alone with her partner.
The doula complements the midwives and doctors. She acts as a constant point of contact for the woman in labor and her partner, mediating with the midwives and working together to find solutions that fulfill her wishes. Her role is not medical, and she does not replace a midwife, even though she has knowledge of medical and anatomical concepts. She strives for good cooperation with the midwives, as any disruption could interfere with the birth process.
She is the emotional support for the woman during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period.
Even during pregnancy, a relationship of trust is established, the birth is planned, and wishes and concerns are discussed. Sensitive information is provided for the birth, for communication in the delivery room, and for the postpartum period.
The doula empowers the pregnant woman to embrace her natural ability to give birth.
In the delivery room, the doula helps with breathing through contractions, changing positions, assists with personal hygiene, provides drinks and food, massages, and creates a comfortable atmosphere. The partner also receives support when accompanying his wife during labor. He is shown techniques beforehand, communication methods are discussed, the context of the birth is explained, and the doula also provides him with support during labor.
In 1995, Klaus and Kennell found that when a doula was present during childbirth, fewer interventions were needed, the rate of cesarean sections, vacuum extractions and forceps deliveries decreased, and fewer breastfeeding problems occurred.
The couples felt safer and there were significantly fewer cases of postpartum depression.
The doula creates the space the woman needs to switch off her mind and focus on her instincts and the work of childbirth.