An Analysis of Modern Childbirth: The Role of the Doula and the Two Worlds of Birthing

Childbirth is a constantly evolving part of nature, defined through experience and interpretation. Often birth is categorized between separate worlds, that of the technocratic, relying heavily on intervention as the body is viewed as a machine, and that of the holistic, prioritizing a mind, body and spirit connection. The research presented is an exploration of the space that exists between these two defining worlds and the roles that doulas, as birthing advocates, play by filling the cracks of a system created on polarization. Through interviews and literature the presentation focuses on developing an understanding of how mothers experience these worlds and the support and care that they receive in the journey of giving birth.