The Roles of a Birth Doula
A Birth Doula...
Recognizes birth as a huge life experience that the mother will remember all her life
Understands the physiology of birth and the emotional needs of a woman in labor
Assists the woman and her partner in preparing for and carrying out their birth plans for the birth
Stays by the side of the laboring woman throughout the entire labor
Provides emotional support, physical comfort measures, an objective viewpoint, and assistance to the woman in getting the information that she needs to make decisions she is comfortable with
Facilitates communication between the laboring woman, her partner, and clinical care providers
Perceives her role as one who nurtures and protects the woman’s memory of her birth experience
The acceptance of doulas in maternity care is growing rapidly with recognition of their important contribution to the improved physical outcomes and emotional well-being of parents and infants.
As a Doula, I also provide post-partum care and breastfeeding support to families with newborn babies.
Check out the statistics below to see how doulas are contributing to overall satisfaction and having a positive impact.
RESEARCH ON GIVING BIRTH WITH A DOULA BY YOUR SIDE:
(Hodnett and colleagues 2011 & Cochrane Review 2018)
39% less likely to give birth by cesarean
9% less likely to request medication
41% less likely to need an assisted delivery
35% less likely to be dissatisfied with their birth experience
31% less likely to use synthetic oxytocin
Shorter labors
Enhanced breastfeeding
Less postpartum depression and anxiety
Greater self esteem
Research shows that women who have sustained support during labor are more likely to have positive birth experiences and less likely to have unwanted interventions (Hodnett and colleagues, 2011).
Doulas Do Not...
- Perform clinical tasks, such as blood pressure, fetal heart checks, vaginal exams, and others. I am there to provide only physical comfort measures and emotional support.
- Make decisions for you. I will help you get the information that is necessary to make an informed decision.
- Speak to the staff on your behalf. I will discuss your concerns with you and suggest options, but you or your partner will speak directly to the clinical staff.
I am happy to offer a complimentary meet and greet with all potential clients. If you want to take advantage of this FREE 30-minute consultation (in person or zoom) with no obligations contact me now.