Learning Objective #1: Distinguish and appreciate the different yet complimentary roles of a doula and intrapartum nurse

Learning Objective #2: Gain insight into the patient's perspective and appreciate how they view attitudes of obstetrical nurses regarding doula support

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A doula is a woman trained and experienced in childbirth who provides continuous physical, emotional, and informational support to a woman during labor, childbirth and the immediate postpartum period. The role of the intrapartum nurse and professional doula differ markedly, yet should complement each other. For doulas and nurses to work together, they must develop a relationship based on mutual respect in order to facilitate a positive birth experience for the patient. The purpose of this study is to examine the level of acceptance shown by intrapartum nurses for doula support as perceived by the patient. This is a descriptive qualitative study in which data were collected via email interviews with women who have given birth in a hospital setting with the assistance of a professional doula (n = 9). A series of twelve questions were asked to investigate how women perceived the relationship between their nurse and doula and how that relationship affected their birth experience. Questions were designed by the investigator and reviewed for content validity by a nurse educator, a midwife, an intrapartum nurse and a doula. Data reveal a dichotomy with prevailing themes ranging from acceptance and affirmation to resentment and animosity. Nurses must recognize that their attitude regarding their patient's choice for doula support has a significant impact on the patient's perception of their birth experience. If both members of this labor team are able to value and respect each other's roles, they can work together to provide women with safe and rewarding births.