The word doula is of Greek origin and used to refer to the head female servant in a household. Today doulas support women and their families throughout the prenatal, childbirth, and postpartum continuum.

Antepartum doulas usually work with women who have been prescribed bed rest for a portion of their pregnancy. Their duties may include prenatal massage, light housekeeping, meal preparation, providing resources for coping with bedrest, and companionship for the pregnant woman.

Birth doulas work with women during pregnancy by providing information and planning tools regarding their birth. They also provide personalized support to laboring women and their families during the birth experience.

Postpartum doulas provide varying services to families in the immediate pospartum period. They are a source of information regarding infant care and feeding and postpartum adjustments, and may provide light housekeeping or meal preparation services.