I have been asked by many ‘Why have a Doula?’ or ‘What did the Doula do for you?’ What I then wanted to ask was, ‘Why wouldn’t you have a Doula?’

I was unsure of what type of birth I really wanted, even after reading through book after book. The visualisations I did with my Doula allowed me to envisage my birth in a positive but clear manner. This helped my partner and I discuss our ideas and begin to formulate a plan.

Through discussions with our Doula we were able to develop a clear and concise Birth Plan. She enabled us to use the language that both my partner and I, herself and any Hospital staff would understand.

We gained confidence and felt empowered to birth naturally. We respected the position of each other, but also knew we had the experience of our Doula for support. This took ‘the fear of the unknown’ out of it.

I had confidence in my partner as our Doula discussed with both of us and explained past experiences and terminology. As his confidence and enthusiasm developed, I felt I was able to relax and trust in him more.

My partner’s confidence grew as he felt he could ask our Doula anything. There were no “dumb” questions and she would be there anyway.

I felt like the pregnancy and birth experience was as much about me as it was about the baby. (I had had negative experiences with my Obstetrician.)

I knew that I would not be alone or would not have to wait around for someone to support me during labour.

I felt relaxed continually supported throughout our labour/birth experience. I did not have to change my focus or think about anything else.

My partner felt confident and relaxed throughout our labour/birth experience. He could come and go to the toilet, for coffee, to get me things.

Our Doula helped set up the room/rooms as I had visualised.

Our Doula seemed to know what I wanted before I did. “Would you like to try the shower?” “Would you like to try the bath?”

Having a Doula in the room meant that hospital staff respected my Birth Plan/desire for a natural birth. Intervention/checks were at a minimum. My partner and I felt confident in asking for and doing what we wished during the birth.

Having a Doula meant I did not have to talk to Hospital staff about trivial things. My partner and our Doula talked when we felt like it. It was like a circle of friends. There was no stranger/strangeness.

Our Doula was encouraging and supportive throughout the experience. Even after hours and hours and hours.

Our Doula reminded my partner and myself about drinking and eating to keep our strength up.

My Doula had coached me in hypnobirthing. This enabled me to focus on and welcome every contraction, allowing all the positive hormones to support my labour.

My every need or desire was catered for before, during and after my birth experience.

I had extra support for breastfeeding, which may have been difficult as the hospital was full.

I had a friendly face and voice on the end of the phone while in Hospital and when we arrived home.

I firmly believe that our positive birth experience was as a direct result of the preparation, support and advice of our Doula. If only she could continue until our beautiful boy is a grown adult.

Olivia and Greg, 2007