Doula: for a better birth experience
14 April 2025 | Comment(s) |
Livia Zimmermann
Nowadays, more and more parents-to-be are looking for additional support during pregnancy and birth. A doula can be a valuable companion here. But what exactly is a doula and what role does she play in the birth process?
Origin of the doula
The term "doula" comes from the ancient Greek and means "a woman’s servant". A doula is a specially trained companion who supports pregnant women emotionally and physically, but does not take on any medical tasks. This tradition has its roots in ancient times, when women with birth experience supported other women during childbirth.
What tasks does a doula perform?
A doula provides continuous support before, during and after the birth. Her main tasks include:
- Emotional support: She helps to reduce fears and insecurities and strengthens the expectant mother's self-confidence.
- Physical support: She helps to relieve pain through massages, breathing techniques and positioning aids.
- Source of information: She provides information about the birth process and helps with decision-making.
- Mediator: She acts as a link between the woman giving birth and the medical staff, without intervening medically herself.
A complement to the midwife
In contrast to the midwife, who is medically trained and conducts births, the doula concentrates exclusively on the emotional and physical support of the parents-to-be. Both roles complement each other perfectly and together they can offer comprehensive care. Other misconceptions about doulas persist:
- Doulas are only for natural births. It is often assumed that doulas only help with natural births. However, doulas support all types of births, including caesarean sections and births with medical interventions.
- Doulas are only for first-time mothers. Another misconception is that doulas are only for women who are having their first child. Doulas can be helpful for any woman, regardless of whether it is her first or fifth child.
- Doulas are expensive and unnecessary. Some people think that doulas are an unnecessary expense. However, studies show that the support of a doula can lead to fewer medical interventions and a more positive birth experience.
These misconceptions can lead to expectant parents not taking advantage of the valuable support that doulas offer.
Advantages of a doula
It is important to find out about the actual role and benefits of a doula in order to make an informed decision. Studies show that the presence of a doula can have a positive impact on the birth process. These include:
Shorter labour time: women with doula support have a shorter labour time on average.
Fewer medical interventions: there is a lower likelihood of caesarean sections and the use of painkillers.
Greater satisfaction: mothers report more positive birth experiences.
Reimbursement by supplemental insurance
The costs of a doula are not always covered by health insurance. Since 2023, Groupe Mutuel, in partnership with the Swiss Association Doula CH and the supplemental insurance policies Optimum and Premium, has been reimbursing a flat-rate amount for the support provided by a doula.
You can find more information on this page.
