Research has shown that having a doula present at a birth shortens first-time labour by an average of 2 hours, decreases the chance of caesarean section by 50%, decreases the need for pain medication, helps fathers participate with confidence, and increases success in breast-feeding (Klaus, Kennell & Klaus, 2002).

Impressive statistics... so what does a doula actually do? A doula is an experienced woman who offers both emotional and practical support to a woman before, during and after childbirth. A doula believes in 'mothering the mother' - enabling a woman to have the best pregnancy, birth and post-birth period, possible. This type of support also helps the rest of the family to relax and enjoy the incredible experience of having a baby.

The services offered by a doula vary according to the needs of the mother or parents-to-be. Every situation is unique, and therefore a doula's role has to be flexible to fit in with each different situation. The type of support will differ for a first time mum to that of a woman who has children already.

Women within the immediate and extended family (mothers/sisters/grandmothers etc) used to be on hand to provide the nurturing role for the new mother, to guide by experience and help with the practicalities that need to be performed before, during and after a woman gives birth. Today, however, as births have moved from home to hospital, an important element of care has been lost from the birth process. The days where a woman would have continuous support from one carer throughout her labour are unfortunately long gone. The reality is that few now know the midwife who delivers their baby - it is even often the case that, because of shift changes, the initial midwife who helps in labour will not be there for the delivery. A doula will be there to support the mother through the whole childbirth experience, and this continuity of care will enable the mother to feel more confident and relaxed during her labour.

Birth doulas are trained and experienced in childbirth. They have a good knowledge and awareness of female physiology. Before the birth, the doula will usually meet with the mother (or couple) at least once face-to-face, and then be available by phone or for additional meetings if necessary. During labour, the doula is able to offer help and suggestions on comfort measures such as breathing, relaxation, movement and positioning, or to take a back seat, providing a reassuring presence to the mother. The doula can, if necessary, also encourage the father to participate in the birth to a level at which he feels comfortable.

The doula's most important role is to provide nurturing, continuous support and reassurance. The doula does not support the mother in a clinical role - that is the job of the midwife/medical staff. After the birth, the doula may follow up with postnatal visits to help the new mum settle at home with her baby.

Postnatal doulas offer practical and emotional support to the new mother and father in the home following the birth of their baby. Too often today, mothers are rushed back into normal day-to-day activities, whereas in many cultures women are confined to bed and rest for a period of up to 40 days. This may be impossible in our society but with the help of a Postnatal doula, a mother can enjoy some of the benefits of a prolonged 'lying in' period. This will allow her to get over the birth, really bond with her baby and to spend extra time with any older siblings. The work of a doula is about empowering a family to take care of itself and a she will facilitate this by giving a hand around the house and offering reassurance, encouragement and suggestions.