A doula is a non-medical companion who can support you physically and emotionally throughout childbirth. During labour they can reassure and encourage you and help you with changing position, breathing, massage and relaxation.

A midwife is a health care provider, while a doula is more of a childbirth coach. You might choose to have a midwife instead of an OB for prenatal care and to deliver your baby—midwives can deliver babies in hospitals, birthing centers or even in your home.

The goal of the doula is to ensure the birthing person feels safe, empowered, informed, respected, and heard throughout their pregnancy, labor, and delivery experience, regardless of whether they are giving birth in a hospital or at home.

The word doula comes from the Greek word doulē, the meaning of which translates to female helper or maidservant. Of course, the doula you hire is definitely not a servant, and may or may not be female, but they are there to help and guide you. It's worth noting that a doula is not a trained medical professional.