By definition:

dou⋅la  [doo-luh]

–noun

a woman who assists women during labor and after childbirth.

Origin:

1975–80; < Mod Gk: female servant

The role of a doula:

Doulas are hired by parents-to-be to act as professional labour support.  A doula’s role is non-medical in nature and includes, but is not limited to:

1. •comforting and supporting labouring women, their partner, and other caregivers
   

2. •massage
   

3. •breathing techniques
   

4. •providing information
   

5. •applying hot or cold compresses
   

6. •offering encouragement
   

7. •providing water or snacks at the mother’s request
   

Essentially, a doula’s job is to do whatever the labouring Mom needs her to do.

A doula will work with your other support team and caregivers, not against them. She will probably have met with you and your partner before the birth to determine how much your partner wants to be a part of the birth. She may offer your other caregivers suggestions on ways to help, if they want to help. During the birth, she will remind your caregivers to eat, rest, and take restroom breaks. Her job is to support not only you but your other caregivers as well.

A doula does not replace the partner or other caregivers. She cannot share the love or connection you share.