1. a trained assistant who provides physical, emotional, and informational support to a woman during labor and childbirth
Usage: commonly used in healthcare and childbirth contexts
2. a trained assistant who provides support and guidance to a family during the postpartum period
Usage: postpartum doula; less common than birth doula

Examples

• The doula helped the mother through each contraction during labor.
• Many hospitals now encourage families to hire a doula for additional support.
• A postpartum doula can assist with newborn care and household tasks.
• The doula provided breathing techniques and comfort measures throughout the delivery.
• Having a doula present reduced the mother's anxiety during childbirth.
• The doula advocated for the mother's birth preferences with the medical team.