Who Controls Childbirth? The Rising Power of Doulas

A growing movement is asking who holds the power during childbirth. In France, and globally, many women are turning to doulas for support. A doula is a trained professional who provides continuous emotional and physical support to a mother before, during, and after childbirth. They do not give medical care. Instead, they offer guidance, comfort, and advocacy. So how do doulas change the experience? And what does their popularity say about the need to empower women during birth? To find answers, we spoke with Professor Soo Downe, a midwifery expert from the University of Lancashire. We also interviewed Charlotte Brielle. She leads Wombs of the World, an NGO that promotes doula care. Their discussion explores the vital role of non-medical support and how it can help women regain a sense of control in the delivery room.