"If a doula were a drug, it would be unethical not to use it."
~ John H. Kennell, MD

A birth doula provides continual, unwavering support to women during childbirth. She works in a cooperative with the entire family and birth team. She is not meant to take the place of a partner, or medical professional, but works alongside them to attend to the emotional support and physical comfort of the birthing woman. A doula is well trained in comfort measures for the laboring woman, and is also empathetic, which combined, can help to create a calmer birthing experience. Having a birth doula has shown to reduce negative outcomes and unwanted interventions, and commonly promotes a more favorable, satisfying birthing experience.