What's a doula?
Birth support for body, mind and soul
The word doula comes from ancient Greek and stands for servant of the woman. A doula is a mother herself.
Doulas accompany other expectant mothers with care, presence and motherly warmth in their process of becoming a mother. Physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually.
- / EVERY BIRTH IS SACRED
- / EVERY BIRTH IS INDIVIDUAL
In my work as doula I accompany women during pregnancy, birth and motherhood. I encourage them in their strength, create a space of trust and I am present with them. It is important to me that the woman feels safe and protected. Birth is subtle, as soon as the woman giving birth is afraid, feels uncomfortable or is under pressure, the birth process stagnates. The ambience of the birth, the choice of the place of birth and the companion who should be present at the birth of the baby is important.
Doulas accompany women on a different level than midwives. A midwife is responsible for the medical work. A midwife does the examinations, makes sure that the baby is well. You can read more about doulas and midwives in my next blog post - "The difference between doulas and midwives".
During pregnancy an inner preparation for the birth can help. The pregnant woman can learn to ignore external influences and dive into the inner world of birth. To practice this, I offer yoga and meditation to women during pregnancy.
What does a doula do?
When I accompany a woman as a doula, I get to know her during pregnancy, so that a basis of trust can develop. I know about her needs, wishes and fears. Two preliminary talks, massages, or dream journeys are part of the birth preparation and accompaniment. Regarding the saying: everything can and nothing must.
The most precious thing about my doula-being is that I am exclusively there for the pregnant women. 21 days around the birth date, I am on call. As soon as the mother feels that the birth of her baby is about to begin, I am at her side, without changing shifts.
No matter where the baby is born - in a hospital, birth centre or at home. Whether by natural birth or by cesarean section. Doulas accompany the woman and her baby until everyone is well looked after.
Would you like a loving companion for your birth? Would you like a support for you and your family in addition to the midwife?
Write to me if you would like to know more about doulas. If you would like to know how to find your doula and what you can do to prepare yourself for your birth.
Mindful Mamas is your support during pregnancy, birth and motherhood. I accompany families on Mallorca and online. On www.mindful-mamas.com you can find more information about the birth care of a doula.
In the interview "Eine Schöne Geburt" (a beautiful birth). Katja tells about her birth experience with a Doula at her side. Last year I accompanied Katja and her baby Eden, during their birth.
Katja tells why the presence of a doula is important for her. Why doulas are a special company in addition to the midwife. Why she advises other pregnant women and families to give birth with a Doula being present, despite having a midwife in the delivery room or in the birth house.
Watch the interview on Youtube.
You have questions? Write a message to Nina-Gyana.