The concept of a midwife and doula in relation to dying is emerging.

Most of us understand the midwife and doula role in the birthing process. Along with being an emotional and spiritual support for the family, the midwife is a skilled, trained practitioner who attends the birth of a baby. The doula provides emotional, spiritual comfort and logistical assistance.

The Concept

In the dying realm, I look at the concept of midwife in the following way. I see midwives to the dying as those who, along with spiritual and emotional support, are thoroughly trained and skilled in the physical processes of dying as well, much as is the hospice nurse. There may be times when you will want a medically skilled midwife.

My view of the doula I liken to the hospice volunteer. They don't need to be knowledgeable like the midwife for their presence to be invaluable. The doula may or may not know much about the physical processes, but often it is not necessary that she needs to.

A Doula for the Dying

And that is the reason I name this website A Doula for the Dying, not a Midwife for the Dying. "Doula" captures the essence, the heart of this concept I am describing of being with a family during the final days and hours. Doula is the soul of walking with a family during these days. And doula is the core of the midwife.

Acknowledgement of the Need

The comforting presence of the midwife or doula is becoming known slowly. Services from hospices like "11th hour" volunteering and "continuous care nursing services" acknowledges the importance of having more support during these hours. The only problem with this is that the hospice determines who needs it and how long it will last, not the family.

It's the best we have so far and thankfully these services are here. Just know that midwives and doulas for the dying are growing in number. My hope is one day this kind of support is available to whoever wants it.