Imagine birthing your baby exactly the way you would like -- quietly and peacefully in a dimly lit room in absolute control of your labour and birth, feeling safe and supported. A doula can help you achieve this. Doulas are trained to look after you, both emotionally and physically, during pregnancy, labour and birthing. They empower you to negotiate the best care for you and your baby. They act as your advocate, steering you and your partner through the sometimes daunting hospital system. Or if you have chosen to have your baby at a birth centre or at home, your doula will be with you and your partner providing support, reassurance and encouragement. In Doulas you will find all you need to know about: choosing the right doula for you, what care is available, prenatal education, the stages of labour, conquering your fear of labour and birthing, the magic of hormones during birth, plus wonderful, inspiring stories from women and men of the wisdom and understanding that doulas bring to the experience of giving birth. - Back cover.