The origins of the word ‘doula’
The word doula comes from the ancient Greek δοῦλα and translates as ‘slave’ or ‘servant’.
It referred to a woman in the service of another, particularly in a domestic setting. Some of them played an informal role in assisting women who were giving birth.
The most famous doula? Galanthis, of course — the one who, according to myth, helped Alcmene give birth to little Heracles (Hercules to the Romans)!
The origins of the word ‘doula’
The word doula comes from the ancient Greek δοῦλα and translates as ‘slave’ or ‘servant’.
It referred to a woman in the service of another, particularly in a domestic setting. Some of them played an informal role in assisting women who were giving birth.
The most famous doula? Galanthis, of course — the one who, according to myth, helped Alcmene give birth to little Heracles (Hercules to the Romans)!
She is a caring presence alongside future parents during pregnancy, at birth and after the baby arrives. She provides support in addition to the chosen medical care — whether in a hospital, clinic, birthing centre or at home — without ever replacing it.
Thanks to her experience, training and sensitivity to the challenges of motherhood, she is able to offer emotional, physical and practical support throughout this adventure, which brings with it so many changes.
With her extensive knowledge of the physiology of pregnancy, childbirth and the postpartum period, she informs, listens and reassures while respecting each individual's specific needs. She offers guidance, provides reliable resources and creates spaces for open discussion. Her aim is to build confidence and enable informed choices.
Aware of the limits of her role, she knows how to refer patients to competent specialists when necessary.
The doula is part of an ancestral tradition passed down from woman to woman. She supports her in her journey to becoming a mother.
Valérie Dupin (doula)
The bond that develops with her is based on simplicity and trust. No subject is off limits. Anything can be discussed without fear of judgement, in a safe and respectful environment.
Gynaecologists and midwives are healthcare professionals.
Thanks to their expertise, they monitor pregnancies, make diagnoses and perform the necessary procedures to ensure the safety of both mother and baby.
They play an essential role in the journey of pregnant women: doula support would not be possible without their presence and support.
A doula is
A professional in personal services
She is a caring presence alongside future parents during pregnancy, at birth and after the baby arrives. She provides support in addition to the chosen medical care — whether in a hospital, clinic, birthing centre or at home — without ever replacing it.
Her experience, training and sensitivity to the challenges of motherhood enable her to offer emotional, physical and practical support throughout this adventure, which brings with it major changes.
With her extensive knowledge of the physiology of pregnancy, childbirth and the postpartum period, she informs, listens and reassures while respecting each individual's specific needs. She offers guidance, provides reliable resources and creates spaces for open discussion. Her aim is to build confidence and enable informed choices.
Aware of the limits of her role, she knows how to refer patients to competent specialists when necessary.
The doula is part of an ancestral tradition passed down from woman to woman. She supports her in her journey to becoming a mother.
Valérie Dupin (doula)
The bond that develops with her is based on simplicity and trust. No subject is off limits. Anything can be discussed without fear of judgement, in a safe and respectful environment.
Gynaecologists and midwives are healthcare professionals.
Thanks to their expertise, they monitor pregnancies, make diagnoses and perform the necessary procedures to ensure the safety of both mother and baby.
They play an essential role in the journey of pregnant women: doula support would not be possible without their presence and support.
The doula
& the co-parent
A boost for the couple's balance
Sometimes, future co-parents may be a little reluctant to have an outsider enter into the intimacy of their relationship. This is understandable. However, it is useful to know that the support of a doula can also be beneficial to them:
- Co-parents rarely have someone to turn to with questions. A doula will be there to lend a sympathetic ear.
- On the day of the birth, the doula will be able to support them and help them find their place, for example, by suggesting things they can do to help. Her presence will also allow them, if they wishes, to take breaks or step back without feeling guilty or worried.
- Faced with the intensity of childbirth, the co-parent may sometimes feel helpless, shaken, or overwhelmed. Here again, the doula will be able to help.
- Finally, if necessary, she can help them find their own bearings with the baby.
The doula
& the co-parent
A boost for the couple's balance
Sometimes, future co-parents may be a little reluctant to have an outsider enter into the intimacy of their relationship. This is understandable. However, it is useful to know that the support of a doula can also be beneficial to them:
- Co-parents rarely have someone to turn to with questions. A doula will be there to lend a sympathetic ear.
- On the day of the birth, the doula will be able to support them and help them find their place, for example, by suggesting things they can do to help. Her presence will also allow them, if they wishes, to take breaks or step back without feeling guilty or worried.
- Faced with the intensity of childbirth, the co-parent may sometimes feel helpless, shaken, or overwhelmed. Here again, the doula will be able to help.
- Finally, if necessary, she can help them find their own bearings with the baby.