FAQ > About Birth Doulas > I have never heard of a Doula before. Why?
Women supporting other laboring women have been around for probably about as long as women have been having babies. However, since births began taking place in hospitals about eighty years ago, these birth assistants have been kept out of the delivery room due to hospital protocols and regulations. Women accepted this change since birth in the hospital was perceived as safer back then. So much so that they were willing to forgo the deemed unnecessary support companions (including Fathers). Times have changed since this practice was first initiated. Fathers have long since been allowed in the delivery room. Now the female labor companions are making a strong comeback. In the last 20 years or so, there has been a shift in attitudes from women requesting more support in labor and this response came in the form of Doulas. People began using the word "Doula” to describe this role since the 90's. Today we are enjoying a thriving professional occupation as we are in great demand. Other names for Doulas are:
- Professional Labor Coach
- Birthworker
- Labor Companion
- Birth Sister
- Birth Assistant
- Grandma, Mom, Sister, Best Friend...and any other female companion that offers meaningful support to another woman in labor
Last updated on August 8, 2008 by Diana Hurwitz