Welcome to The Doula Difference web page. I am based in Melbourne (Mornington), Australia! Hope you enjoy this site, feel free to have a browse and contact me with any queries!
Birth is something that a woman never forgets. Making thoses memories good memories, is what I'm about. A woman will feel empowered when she is in control of her birth and making decisions based on the right information. Birth can then be enjoyed rather than endured.
What is a doula?
A doula is a qualified support person who provides emotional, physical and informational support before, during and after childbirth.
The word 'doula' comes from the Greek word meaning slave. She was most likely the most important female slave or servant in an ancient Greek household who helped the lady of the house through her childbearing.
Why have a doula?
Studies have proven the positive effects of a having a doula to be great:
- 50% reduction on cesarean rates
- 25% shorter labour
- 60% reduction in epidural requests
- 40% reduction in syntocinon use
- 30% reduction in analgesic use
- 40% reduction in forceps delivery
(Klaus, Kennell & Klaus review 1993)
To have a continual support, not only for you, but also your partner, having met during pregnancy, takes a lot of the unfamiliarity out of the 'birth day'. Consider your doula as your own personal slave who is at your beck and call during the birth of your baby. Your personal birth advocate who is there to protect the birth environment.
I want just my partner, why do I need a stranger?
It is well known that when a person sees a loved one seemingly in pain or doing unusual things, it can be upsetting and sometimes stressful. Knowing what to do, say or act at a time like this is something that many partners are fearful of. Fear is the main cause of pain and is best if it can be avoided by all involved. A doula is familiar with these things and has been trained to know what to do to help, not only the woman, but her other support people.
What about the midwives? Won't they look after me?
Of course they will! However, with the shortage of midwives and the demand on their time, they can't always stay with the same labouring woman for hours. They take care of the clinical aspect and although they would love to concentrate on one woman at a time, the hospitals demand more. There can also be shift changes and different midwives taking care of you. As a doula, I will stay by your side from beginning to end. My only client is you and I have no paperwork! | 
