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The word "doula" comes from the ancient Greek, and is now used to refer to someone experienced in childbirth who provides
continuous physical, emotional, and informational support to the mother before, during, and just after childbirth; or who
provides emotional and practical support during the postpartum period. Studies have shown that when doulas attend birth,
labors are shorter with fewer complications, babies are healthier and they breastfeed more easily.
A birth doula recognizes childbirth as a key experience the mother will remember all of her life. She understands
birth and the emotional needs of the woman in labor. She assists the woman in preparing for and carrying out her plans
for the birth and stays with her throughout labor. During labor, the doula provides emotional support, physical comfort
measures, an objective viewpoint, as well as helping the woman obtain the information she needs to make informed decisions.
The Birth Doula nurtures and protects the woman's memory of her birth experience.
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