Doulas are becoming more well known, which is awesome! They're not only for the hippies or the rich people. It's obviously a 'paid for' service, but many would argue that actually having an independent birth support option is invaluable. 

'Doula' means 'servant', and this is what I offer to families. I am in service. 

A Doula can provide non-medical support during pregnancy, birth and postpartum. A Doula is NOT the same as a midwife. These roles can work very well alongside each other, however, and both can form part of your birth team. As a Doula specialising in home and freebirths, I can absolutely be at your birth without a midwife present, if this is what you choose. We can discuss more about how this can work, and what the boundaries can look like. 

Having a Doula at your birth can 'improve outcomes', though I feel it's really important to be clear that a Doula (or anyone) is never there to save the day, nor are they are magic wand and simply their presence will make everything perfect. Birth and life just don't work like that! The work together in the antenatal time is so so important, in your preparation and in building a relationship of mutual trust and understanding together - and THIS is an ideal foundation for a safe and positive birth experience.