The Peaceful Doula
Louise Oliver
A doula is a trained companion who supports you emotionally, practically, and with evidence-based information during pregnancy, birth, and the early weeks after your baby is born. Unlike midwives or doctors, doulas don’t carry out any clinical tasks — our role is to walk alongside you, offering calm reassurance, encouragement, and continuity of care.
Think of a doula as someone in your corner: someone who listens without judgement, helps you navigate your choices, supports your partner so they feel confident too, and creates a safe, calm space for you to welcome your baby.
Having a doula means you never have to go through pregnancy, birth, or those early weeks feeling alone or unsure. Research shows that continuous support from a doula can lead to shorter labours, less need for interventions, and a more positive birth experience. But beyond the studies, it’s about having someone by your side who knows you, listens to you, and has your back every step of the way.
A doula offers:
Calm reassurance when things feel overwhelming.
Practical tools and comfort measures for labour and birth.
Evidence-based information so you can make decisions that feel right for you.
Support for your partner, helping them feel confident and involved.
Continuity of care, so you’re supported by someone you already know and trust.
Put simply, a doula helps you feel informed, calm, and cared for — so you can focus on welcoming your baby in the way that’s right for you
According to Evidenced Based Birth studies have shown having a doula can result in a,
31% decrease in the use of Pitocin (induction of labour)
28% decrease in the risk of C-section
12% increase in the likelihood of a spontaneous vaginal birth
9% decrease in the use of any medications for pain relief
14% decrease in the risk of newborns being admitted to a special care nursery
34% decrease in the risk of being dissatisfied with the birth experience
Most importantly, however, a doula reminds women in labour that they are in control and to follow their instincts, whatever direction their instincts takes them. The result; a birth a woman is proud of no matter the circumstances.
Frimley Park
Royal Surrey, Guildford
St Peter's, Chertsey
West Middlesex University Hospital
Kingston Hospital
Queen Charlotte's, Hammersmith
Wexham Park
The Royal Berkshire, Reading
Chelsea and Westminster, Kensington
Wycombe Hospital, High Wycombe
Basingstoke
Royal Hampshire
St Mary's, Paddington
St Thomas' & Guys
Epsom
George's
The Portland
The Lindo Wing
The Kensington Wing
If you do not see your chosen hospital on the list and you feel I may be the right doula for you then please do get in touch and we can look at options.
I go ‘On call’ for my birth clients 10days before EDD, with the exception of clients expecting twins which is 14 days.
For you this means I am available 24/7 and you become my absolute priority. I do not travel or make big plans and will never be more than an 90 minutes away.
I aim to ensure that I am well rested and my doula bag is always packed and in the car. You can call me anytime day or night.
If you would like an extended on-call period please contact me for prices
Absolutely, your birth partner can benefit immensely from the nurturing and practical support of a doula. The aim is to support you both as a couple. I will be there to help them help you. It can be very tiring and emotionally draining for your husband/partner. so it is also good for them to know that if they need to take a few minutes to gather thier thought or have to go and deal with other children I am there by your side while they are gone. As a doula, I’ll always stand back when the time is right and respect a couple and their privacy. Sometimes i will be in the wings and at others I'll be right by your side. It's all about what you both need at any given time.