What is a Doula? And why do I need one?
Pregnancy Support
During pregnancy, a doula offers guidance, knowledge, and empathy to expectant individuals and their partners. They help empower and inform individuals about their birth options and decisions while respecting their autonomy. Doulas provide emotional support, validating the emotions and concerns that arise during this transformative period.
Labor and Birth Support
One of the most vital roles a doula plays is providing continuous support during labor and birth. This support can be physical, such as offering comfort measures like massage, positioning assistance, and relaxation techniques. By using these tools, doulas help individuals cope with the intensity of contractions and facilitate a positive birth experience.
Emotional support is another aspect of a doula's role during labor. They offer encouragement, reassurance, and a comforting presence, while helping individuals feel more secure and confident in their ability to give birth. By maintaining a calm and compassionate environment, doulas enhance the overall birth experience for both the laboring individual and their partner. Their presence is known to enhance the birth experience, promote positive outcomes, and empower individuals as they navigate the miraculous journey of becoming parents.
Postpartum Support
A doula's support doesn't end with the birth of a baby; they also provide assistance during the postpartum period. They offer non-judgmental emotional support as individuals navigate the physical and emotional changes that come with childbirth. Doulas may provide information on infant care, breastfeeding, self-care, and postpartum recovery, while addressing any concerns or questions that arise. By doing so, they contribute to a smoother transition into parenthood and help individuals feel confident in their new roles.
A doula is a trained professional who provides continuous emotional, physical, and informational support to individuals and families throughout pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. In summary, a doula is a valuable member of the birth team who provides continuous physical, emotional, and informational support before, during, and after childbirth.
Advocacy and Collaboration
Doulas act as advocates for their clients, ensuring their desires and preferences are respected and communicated effectively to healthcare providers. They collaborate with the birth team, complementing the medical care provided by doctors or midwives. Doulas also foster effective communication and help bridge any gaps that may arise between the birthing individual and their healthcare providers.
Benefits of Having a Doula
Research consistently shows that having a doula present during childbirth can lead to several benefits. Studies indicate that individuals supported by doulas often have shorter labors, reduces the need for inductions therefore increasing the rate of spontaneous vaginal births by 12%, decreased need for medical interventions such as c-section rates by 28%, the need for pain meds by 9% and the need for pitocin by 31%, and higher satisfaction with their birth experiences. Lower pain medication intervention may also reduce the potential for NICU or specialty care nursery as a result of the pain medication. Additionally, having a doula's support has been associated with lower rates of postpartum depression and increased breastfeeding success.
“She was absolutely amazing if I was to ever have another baby I would want her there. She helped calm me down & helped with my breathing technique. She had such a positive attitude and was such an advocate for myself & family”.— Ashley T.
“Brandy was amazing. She did everything that I needed her to do and more. I would 100% have Brandy be my doula again for my next pregnancy. She was extremely supportive and encouraging through my birthing experience, holding my hand and utilizing helpful breathing techniques.”—Kelly B