What Is A Doula?
A trained, trusted support person who offers emotional, physical, and informational care across pregnancy, birth, postpartum, and loss.
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Improved
Postpartum well-being
lower mood disorder incidence
Higher Success
Breastfeeding Support
and longer duration
25%
Shorter Labor
average reduction
39%
Reduction in C‑sections
with continuous labor support
60%
Decrease in Epidurals
when doula support is present
“If a doula were a drug, it would be unethical not to use it.” — John Kennell, M.D.
History
Roots of Doula Care
Doula care is an old practice with many names. Across cultures, community birthworkers have long walked with families through pregnancy, birth, postpartum, and loss.
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Community origins
In Black, Indigenous, and other communities, midwives and doulas—often called “granny midwives” in the U.S. South—served as healers, advocates, and cultural leaders. Their work was central to community health even as midwifery was later marginalized during the medicalization of birth.
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The word “doula”
The modern term comes from the Greek doulÄ“ (often translated as “servant”), and today refers to trained, non‑clinical support people who provide continuous emotional, informational, and physical care.
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Modern revival
In the late 20th century, research on continuous labor support helped spark today’s doula movement. In 1992, leaders formalized training and certification through DONA International—helping bring doula care to more families while honoring its community roots.
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Words Matter, Care Remains
Not everyone prefers the term “doula.” However you name it, birthworker, auntie, traditional support, community caregiver, this care is rooted in community and support.
At ACDC, we aim to be a resource hub, connecting families with trusted people, programs, and culturally grounded resources in their own communities.