Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.
Topic Contents
Doulas and Support During Childbirth
Overview
![](https://ixbapi.healthwise.net/resource/14.2/media/medical/hw/acn6508_368x240.jpg)
When you're in labor, you can get support from your partner, a loved one, or a friend. You may also get support from hospital nurses, a midwife, or a doula (say "DOO-luh").
A doula is a birth coach who can support you while you're in labor and delivering your baby. They can also help you feel supported after your baby is born.
Having a doula or support person with you may reduce your labor time. And you might be less likely to need pain medicines.
If you're interested in working with a doula, ask your friends, doctor, midwife or hospital for recommendations.
How can a doula help during labor?
A doula's job is to help support you before, during, and after your baby is born. During labor, a doula can focus on your needs and offer you continuous support.
There are many ways a doula can offer support. They might:
- Meet with you to learn your birth preferences.
- Teach you about what to expect and how to prepare for labor.
- Listen to your concerns.
- Answer questions.
- Reassure and encourage you during labor.
- Track your labor.
- Remind hospital staff about your wishes and birth preferences.
- Guide a birth photographer, if you have one.
- Help you feel comfortable, calm, and relaxed. They might:
- Give you a massage.
- Help you get into different positions.
- Use guided imagery to help ease your pain.
- Remind you to take deep breaths.
- Walk with you.
If you have a partner or loved one with you during labor, a doula can also help that person feel confident and helpful.
Related Information
Credits
Current as of: July 10, 2023
Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Current as of: July 10, 2023
Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Learn how we develop our content.
To learn more about Ignite Healthwise, LLC, visit webmdignite.com.
© 2024 Ignite Healthwise, LLC. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Ignite Healthwise, LLC.