In comparing a doula to a best friend or the woman's mother or sister, the difference is the experience and the perspective of the doula, and her hands-on knowledge. Doulas have had training in a variety of situations, such as when labor slows down, or if the mother becomes discouraged, or if she's having back pain. And someone who truly cares for the woman may offer love and stay with her, but may not have ideas of things to try. If you weren't happy with a previous birth experience, a doula could improve the outcome of the next one. In fact, research shows that doulas do improve birth outcomes.
When compared to nurses and midwives who have clinical responsibilities that have to take priority over the mother's emotional needs, the doula can always remain beside the woman as a continuing source of nurturing encouragement and reassurance.
They fit in anywhere: at home, at the hospital, at birth centers. Doulas appeal to many women and their partners -- the idea of having someone there just for them, who has no other obligations, no shift changes -- even fathers who want to play the primary support role are relieved to know there's going to be someone there reminding them, helping out, and giving them a break if necessary and offering perspective.
