The word doula comes from Ancient Greek and meant “female slave.” However, the word has evolved over time and has come to describe non-medical support in labor and delivery. According to some reports, only around three percent of American women use a doula and many have never even heard the term, but doulas are becoming more popular among certain segments of the population.
What is a doula? Is a doula a midwife? How much does one cost? What benefits does a doula bring to the labor and delivery experience? What about postpartum doulas? I talk with Ruth, a doula based in Northern California, and get answers to all these questions.
Website:
Ruth Lundsten’s Doula Services
Audio clip: Adobe Flash Player (version 9 or above) is required to play this audio clip. Download the latest version here. You also need to have JavaScript enabled in your browser.
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
If you like (Over)Thinking Mom, don't forget to SUBSCRIBE. You can subscribe by RSS, EMAIL, iTUNES, or even through your SMART PHONE. If you'd like to guest post or appear on the podcast, feel free to CONTACT ME or CALL the show's voicemail line.
{ 1 trackback }