doula

American  

[doo-luh] / ˈdu lə /

noun

1. a woman who assists women during labor and after childbirth.

2. a professional who provides support and assistance to individuals or families, especially during a medical or emotional crisis (used in combination).

   death doulas who offer comfort and companionship to dying patients.

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doula British  

/ ˈduːlə /

noun

1. a woman who is trained to provide support to women and their families during pregnancy, childbirth, and the period of time following the birth

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Etymology

Origin of doula

First recorded in 1975–80; from Modern Greek: literally, “female servant”

Explanation

A doula is someone who works as a companion or coach to a woman while she's giving birth. Most doulas provide support before or after childbirth as well. Unlike a midwife, nurse, or doctor, a doula doesn't have a medical role in childbirth, but is there to give expectant parents whatever kind of support they need. A doula might answer questions and provide information before the birth, rub a woman's back while she's in labor, and give advice about parenting concerns. Death doulas provide a similar type of support to patients at the end of their lives.

Example Sentences

“This is what affordability looks like,” Newsom said at a livestreamed press conference alongside other public officials, a pregnant woman, a doula and the heads of a celebrity-studded nonprofit chosen to procure the diapers.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 8, 2026

Depending on their level of training a doula can cost between £25-£45 an hour, according to Clare.

From BBC • May 2, 2026

Fanny Behrens who lives in Devon, first approached death doula Sarah Parker, 10 months before her husband died of cancer.

From BBC • May 2, 2026

She took an online home-birthing class, watched YouTube videos, reached out to midwife practices to assemble her care team and hired a doula.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 3, 2026

A doula intends to help the dying person make informed choices about their end of life, but sometimes those choices may feel at odds with what the doula thinks is “right.”

From Los Angeles Times • May 19, 2025