From the beginning of time, women have been cared for and nurtured as they became mothers. While today it’s rarely mothers, aunts and sisters who accompany their birth, doulas have taken over this role. A doula is a childbirth expert who you’d decide to hire 4-6 months before your due date. She will guide you through your pregnancy, be available for questions, referrals, the making of decisions, how to prepare for birth and post partum, creating a birth plan and generally make you feel safe and prepared during this exciting time. Doula-support during labor and birth has statistically significant benefits. Doula-supported births have 40% fewer csections, less pain medications needed, less pitocin needed, a healthier baby, 13% less transportation to NICU needed and a better birth experience.