The alternative to maternity nurse - Doulas

Whether you are expecting your first or fifth baby, you will probably be a bit anxious about how you will cope with the first few days and weeks after the birth. If however you do not want the intense presence of a live-in maternity nurse and you could use the help of someone who is an experienced mother herself consider getting a doula.

A what ? I hear you say ! "Doula" (pronounced "doola") is a Greek word meaning "woman servant or caregiver". It now refers to an experienced woman who offers emotional and practical support to a woman (or couple) before, during and after childbirth. A doula believes in "mothering the mother" - enabling a woman to have the most satisfying and empowered time that she can during pregnancy, birth and the early days as a new mum. This type of support also helps the whole family to relax and enjoy the experience.

Postnatal doulas work flexible hours to suit the family, offering practical and emotional support to the new mum and dad in the home following the birth of baby. In the West today, too often mothers are rushed back into normal day-to-day activities, 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 help her bond with her baby and spend extra time with any older siblings. Our work is about empowering a family to take care of itself and we facilitate this by helping around the house and offering encouragement and suggestions. Postnatal doulas charge around £12 to £15 per hour.

Birth doulas (or birth partners) are trained and experienced in childbirth. They have a good knowledge and awareness of female physiology (often their background training is midwifery or antenatal teaching) but the doula is not supporting the mother in a clinical role - that is the job of the midwife/medical staff. She will support the parents during pregnancy and throughout labour, for however long and will visit them postnatally. Birth doulas charge a fee between £400 and 500.

If you would like to know more, visit www.doula.org.uk or call Valerie Goedkoop on 01892 532 830 or visit www.nurturingbirth.co.uk