The word 'doula' is Greek and means 'woman's servant'.  The word has come to refer to "a woman experienced in childbirth who provides continuous physical, emotional, and informational support to the mother before, during and just after childbirth." (Mothering the Mother, Klaus, Kennell, and Klaus.)

Other care providers such as doctors or nurses, offer support, but their focus is primarily medical, which leaves a need for continuous emotional and physical support.  Doulas are generally hired by, and work for YOU.  They spend time with you before labor to get to know you, your expectations, and your plans for your birth. 

During labor, a doula can help use the right tools at the right time, including helping with breathing techniques, positioning, massage, and multiple uses of heat/cold to comfort the laboring woman.  She also offers emotional support, knowing through training and experience, what a woman needs during the different phases of labor.