What is a doula?

The word “doula” comes from Greek and means “woman’s servant.” In labor support, the word “doula” refers to a professional care provider who assists a woman and her partner in preparing for and carrying out their plans for the birth. A doula provides continuous emotional, physical and informational support throughout pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. A doula does NOT perform clinical tasks nor offer medical advice.

About Gabriela Méndez

I am an elementary school teacher who became interested in the role of the doula as an expectant mother. I began my education and training as a birth doula after the birth of my first son in 2004. I have completed DONA birth doula training as well as Birthwise Level I birth doula training. I am involved in the Santa Cruz birth community through volunteer work with Birth Network of Santa Cruz County. In 2006 I gave birth to my second son.

I have a comprehensive view of birth since my own birthing experiences were very different. My first son was born in a maternity center with some interventions. My second was born at home. I believe that every mother, baby, and birth is unique and I understand that the needs of birthing mothers vary greatly. while I know that women are capable of natural childbirth, I also understand that every mother requires different tools in order to birth her baby. I have attendend both home and hospital births, and can support you in either environment.