The word doula comes from a Greek word meaning “woman helper.”  Today, a doula is a supportive companion, trained to give support during labor.  All of our doulas are professionally trained through a national organization, Doulas of North America.  Whether a pregnant woman arrives at the hospital alone or with family or friends, the doula can help her to have a more comfortable birthing experience. UNC BirthPartner doulas volunteer their time, and for this reason our services are offered free of charge.

The volunteer doulas of UNC BirthPartners are committed to helping every laboring woman have a satisfying birth experience at N.C. Women's Hospital.  We believe that a doula's caring support helps a woman have a more positive birth experience, regardless of the type of labor and birth she has.  In addition, it is our goal to foster partner participation (when applicable) and to help establish breastfeeding for those women who choose to breastfeed.  We are particularly proud to be able to offer these services to women who would otherwise be unable to afford doula care.  We believe that a positive birth combined with partner participation and breastfeeding creates a strong foundation for greater confidence in parenting, and a good start for any new family.

UNC BirthPartner doulas are available to anyone who would like to have one at their birth. If you would like more information about our program or would like to request a doula, please contact us: 
birthpartners@gmail.com or 919-843-1907.