Holding the Space

For as long as people have been giving birth, there have been doulas. Traditionally doulas were the women of the community, coming together to give advice, support, and guidance to pregnant women and new mothers. They would attend her birth, and then envelop the new family in love, wisdom, and practical support. This is known in the birth world as “holding the space”.

Over time, this role has all but disappeared, the wisdom of women being lost, and modern obstetrics becoming the foremost authority on maternity care, particularly in Western societies. Birthing people rarely give birth with a known care team.

Doulas lovingly fill this gap.

A doula is a valuable source of ongoing support for expectant parents seeking guidance, and advocacy throughout their birthing journey. Doulas provide continuous emotional, physical, and informational support during pregnancy, labour, birth, and postpartum.

The presence of a doula ensures a nurturing and reassuring environment in which you will feel empowered to make informed decisions about your labour and birth. The continuity of care a doula can offer sets you up for the birth you desire, and enables you to hold your autonomy in a system that often overrides your capacity to make choices around your own body and birth.

Doulas work closely with midwives, obstetricians, and other allied health professionals to support you to birth your baby in your own informed power.