Summary: The word doula comes from Ancient Greek and meant “female slave.” However, the word has evolved over time and has come to describe non-medical support in labor and delivery. According to some reports, only around three percent of American women use a doula and many have never even heard the term, but doulas are becoming more popular among certain segments of the population. What is a doula? Is a doula a midwife? How much does one cost? What benefits does a doula bring to the labor and delivery experience? What about postpartum doulas? I talk with Ruth, a doula based in Northern California, and get answers to all these questions. Website: Ruth Lundsten's Doula Services Whats a Doula
