Do I Want a Doula?
Many speak of Doulas but do you really want another person in your birthing space? Well, that depends! So, let me help you figure this out!
WHAT IS A DOULA?
A doula is a professional who is trained in physiological childbirth, as well as how to support women through all types of birth. Doulas provide continuous support to a mother before, during, and just after birth. "Doula" comes from a Greek word that means “a woman who serves”.
WHAT DO DOULAS DO?
-Provide emotional support
-Uses comfort measures: massage, breathing, relaxation, movement, position changes
-Gives childbirth information
-Continuously reassures and comforts birthing parents (the key word is continuous—a doula never leaves the mother’s side)
-Helps birthing parents become informed about all birth options & the positive & negative effects (benefits & risks) of each option
-Empowers the birthing mother and partner to advocate for themselves and helps facilitate communication between the mother and care provider
-Looks after your partner as well (gives them bathroom breaks!), but their primary responsibility is to the mother
STUDIES SHOW THAT WHEN CONTINUOUS LABOR SUPPORT WAS PROVIDED BY A DOULA, WOMEN EXPERIENCED A:
• 31% decrease in the use of Pitocin
• 39% decrease in the risk of an unplanned cesarean
• 12% increase in the likelihood of a spontaneous vaginal birth
• 9% decrease in the use of any medications for pain relief
• 14% decrease in the risk of newborns being admitted to a special care nursery
• 34% decrease in the risk of being dissatisfied with the birth experience
"One study found that new mothers expected their nurse to spend 53% of her time offering support, but only 6%–10% of the nurses time was actually engaged in labor support activities & only 15% of the nurses time was spent in the room with the birthing person."
Looking at what a Doula is, does & can effect in birth, would you want to have a professional with you who can provide this service? Does the thought of reducing your risk of an unplanned cesarean & being happier with your experience sound appealing? If so, then I think you have your answer on whether you would want a Doula supporting you through birth.
