Dictionary List

A professional companion who provides continuous emotional, physical, and informational support to women throughout every stage of pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period.

The doula's neutral stance, independent of any institution, focuses solely on the needs of the family.

The healing bond established when a baby is placed naked on a parent's chest immediately after birth.

It is a natural hormone that promotes labor and awakens feelings of love and bonding.

A flexible list of priorities and boundaries that the family sets for the birthing process.

The postpartum period is a delicate transitional period during which parents receive physical and emotional support.

A free and informed decision a person makes about their own body after all options have been presented.

A birthing style that utilizes gravity while allowing for freedom of movement and vertical positions.

The complementary collaboration between a doula and midwives who are responsible for the medical aspects of childbirth.

Development and support sessions where doulas evaluate their professional progress with the guidance of experienced mentors.

A non-judgmental, supportive approach that maintains equal distance from all family structures, beliefs, identities, and body types.

A woven fabric used to provide physical comfort during childbirth and to help the baby settle into the pelvis.

A profound trauma experienced by a person during the birthing process, affecting their physical integrity or emotional security.

The first milk that comes immediately after birth is a rich and precious substance that builds the baby's immune system.

Managing the intense sensations during childbirth through methods such as massage, heat application, and position changes.

A compassionate and non-judgmental support process offered to families during difficult births or challenging circumstances.

A set of rules that defines a doula's job description, responsibilities, and their relationship with the medical field.

A harmonious, family-focused working relationship established between healthcare professionals in the birthing environment and the doula.

A narrative process in which birth is understood not only physically, but also emotionally and spiritually.

Mentoring and knowledge sharing offered by experienced doulas to community members new to the profession.

A method that promotes secure attachment, where the baby is carried using a fabric strap that is fastened to the body.

The period encompassing the first three months after birth, during which the baby and parent adjust to the world and to each other.

Positions that utilize gravity at different stages of labor to facilitate the baby's progress.

Companionship that involves the non-judgmental acceptance of feelings such as fear, excitement, or uncertainty that arise during the birthing process.

Guidance provided by the doula on how partners or companions can be involved in the birthing process.

The ability to focus on the intense feelings and the moment of birth without resistance or judgment.

Conscious steps taken by a doula or parent to protect their own physical and mental health.

The process by which a family becomes aware of and evaluates alternative approaches outside of standard protocols.