doula
UK[ˈduːlə]US[ˈduːlə]
n
a woman, typically without formal obstetric training, who is employed to provide guidance and support to a pregnant woman during labor.
Etymology
the term 'doula' entered the english language in the 1970s from modern greek, where it signifies a female servant. this modern greek word itself derives from ancient greek 'doulē' (δούλη), meaning "female slave" or "bondmaid." the adoption of this term into the context of childbirth support was intended to evoke a sense of experienced, nurturing, and non-medical assistance provided to a laboring mother. thus, the semantic journey transformed the concept from one of servitude to one of professional, compassionate support in a specific modern healthcare setting.
Analysis
the word is a simplex loanword. it is a direct borrowing from modern greek, where 'doula' (δούλα) means "female servant" or "slave woman." its functional role in english is as a whole noun.
Examples
the expectant mother hired a doula to provide emotional and physical support throughout her labor.
many birth doulas also offer postpartum services to help new families adjust.
studies suggest that the continuous presence of a doula can lead to more positive birth outcomes.