In ancient Greece, the word "doula" meant "a woman's servant." But today, doulas serve as the modern-day social support for women during one of the most important phases of their lives: pregnancy and childbirth.
May is National Doula Month, a time to raise awareness about professional doulas around the country and here on the First Coast. Doula's offer a wide range of services - everything from prenatal counseling and support (for both mom and dad), assistance with a birth plan and help during labor, and standing by to help a new family adjust to life after the baby is born. Studies have shown the presence of a doulareduces the chances of a Caesarean, difficult births in general, and improved APGAR scores for newborns.
"Women really see a difference when we're there," says doula and childbirth educator Kelly Dooge.
For more information, visit www.jacksonvilledoulas.com.