What is a Doula?

A Doula is a trained birth coach — a surrogate mother figure (without the baggage) who accompanies the couple throughout the entire labor and delivery process.  They offer what Doula Giuditta Tornetta calls a girlfriend’s PIE: unconditional physical, informational and emotional support.   Join our virtual doula program now, and get informational and emotional support, two out of the three services doulas offer…and it is free.  Simply go back to the home page and put your due date and e-mail address and enjoy a virtual doula at your side.

Physical comfort procedures used during labor can include massage, counter-pressure, gentle touch, and literally supporting the laboring woman’s body weight during a strong contraction.  Positioning and frequent position changes are proving to be helpful in labor progress.  Doulas often help mothers to squat or to assume other positions that require strong physical support.

Informational support is also essential when the labor goes from the comfort of the home to the hospital.  Often, as soon as the mother arrives at the hospital and is given a hospital gown, a transformation takes place.  The mother goes from a natural birthing mother to a frightened ‘patient.’  Medical providers intervene with strange machines and equipment, offering technological assistance that is somewhat confusing and frightening to the mother-to-be and her partner.  A Doula, with her knowledge of the natural physiology of labor and delivery, can explain suggested medical procedures and interventions and help provide the clarity expectant parents need when faced with medical decisions.

Emotional comfort is imperative if the mother is to feel safe and secure in the birthing environment.  A Doula’s unique role is to encourage the mother-to-be’s self-confidence, protect the sacredness of the process, and help her relax and focus on the natural rhythm and progress of her labor.

“My mission, as a Doula, is to help women remember their innate ability to give birth naturally, in a relaxed and meditative state.”