Doula
A doula is a birth assistant who provides various forms of non-medical support (physical, emotional and informed choice regarding birthing options) in the childbirth process. Based on a particular doula's training and background, the doula may offer support during prenatal care, during childbirth and/or during the postpartum period.
A birth doula is a care provider for labor in many settings including home-births and hospital births. A postpartum doula typically beginsto provide care in the home after the birth. Such care may include cooking for the mother, breast-feeding support, newborn care assistance, errands, and light housekeeping.
For further reading:
The Birth Partner: A complete guide to childbirth for Dads, Doulas and other Birth Companions, by Penny Simkin. Harvard Common Press.