What is a Birth Doula?
So you want to know…. What is a birth doula?
This is a question I get asked a lot.
You might have not heard the word doula before (pronounced ‘doola’), or you might have heard it but are not sure what it actually is?
Well, if you google what is a doula, this is what comes up:
A doula is a trained companion who is not a healthcare professional and who supports another individual through a significant health-related experience, such as childbirth, miscarriage, induced abortion or stillbirth, or non-reproductive experiences such as dying.
wow!
a doula walks with you during the hardest times of your life.
I am a birth doula (and also a bereavement doula) so I support families during pregnancy, birth and the first weeks after birth.
My main role is to support, provide resources, encourage and guide you. I encourage self-confidence and I fully trust in your ability to birth your baby!
We start in pregnancy where I provide continuous emotional, physical and informational care. We meet several times and discuss your birth wishes and preferences, as well as your options. We practice relaxation techniques and ways that will make you feel supported, safe, comfortable and calm during labour. We talk about any fears, worries or anxious thoughts you may have. We celebrate the wonders of your body and we bond with that beautiful baby of yours.
In labour, my goal is for you to feel empowered and confident to take charge of your own birth.
I will make sure both you and your partner have what you need, suggest positions and movements, use my rebozo, acupressure points, counter pressure, aromatherapy, massage and positive affirmations.
I will create the birthing environment you want and reassure you when needed. I also encourage you to ask the questions and communicate with your healthcare providers.
After birth when all the focus is on baby, my focus will be on you. Comfortable and cared for. Seen and heard.
I can help Initiate breastfeeding and I will not leave your side before baby has been fed, you are showered and tucked into bed, and partner has had a break.
But what does the research say? well here are some benefits in having a doula:
50% reduction in caesarean rate
25% shorter labour
60% reduction in epidural requests
40% reduction in oxytocin use
30% reduction in analgesia use
40% reduction in forceps delivery
Improved breastfeeding
Decreased incidence of postpartum depression
Greater maternal satisfaction
Better mother - infant interaction
Sound pretty good huh?!
But YOU need to do the hard work, I support you through it.
You deserve to have the best possible birth experience and I would love to help you achieve just that!
Me and my brand new parents to baby Aubrey! Was such a magical experience watching this family journey through the transformation of becoming mum and dad!
My beautiful friend and fellow doula supporting my client Amy during labour. Such a beautiful moment!