Doula (doo-luh) n./ trained, professional labor & birth support
"If a doula were a drug, it would be unethical to offer it to every laboring mother."
-John H Kennell, MD
The word doula literally means "a woman who serves."
Doulas of Eastern Idaho is an organization of doulas who promote the benefits of doula assisted birthing and postpartum care. We provide a forum of furthering education, networking and idea sharing for the doula community. Doulas in our organization have a standard of practice that creates continuity of care as we positively influence the childbirth experiences for mothers and families.
A doula is a professional labor support person who provides continuous non-medical emotional support, physical comfort and education to a woman before, during, and after childbirth. She encourages and promotes self advocacy, informed choices, and quality communication between mother and care providers. She also offers positive support and guidance to the mother's partner and loved ones as well and is a positive presence in the birth setting.