A doula is a trained professional who provides physical, emotional, and informational support to individuals before, during, and after childbirth. The role of a doula is to help ensure a positive and empowering birth experience, regardless of the type of birth a person is planning.

A birth doula supports the pregnant person during labor and delivery. They assist with comfort measures such as breathing techniques, massages, positioning, and relaxation strategies. Birth doulas also provide emotional support, offer information about the labor process, and advocate for the birthing person's preferences and choices in the birth plan.

a postpartum doula provides support after childbirth. They help with newborn care, such as feeding, diapering, and soothing, as well as assisting with household tasks, and offering emotional support as the family adjusts to the new baby. They may also assist with breastfeeding and provide guidance on newborn care.

A fertility doula is a specialized type of doula who supports individuals and couples who are trying to conceive, undergo fertility treatments, or experience challenges with fertility. Fertility doulas provide emotional, physical, and informational support throughout the fertility journey, whether it involves natural conception, assisted reproductive technologies like IVF, or the experience of miscarriage and pregnancy loss.

Research and studies show that having a doula can reduce the need for interventions like epidurals, cesarean sections, and forceps deliveries, as well as shorten the length of labor. It can lead to better birth outcomes, including higher rates of satisfaction with the birth experience, increased likelihood of vaginal birth, and reduced feelings of trauma post-birth.