What is a Doula?

~Doula is a Greek word meaning woman who serves. A Doula is a labor support professional who assists both Mom and Dad (or birthing partner) before, during and after a birth.

Why should we hire a Doula?

~Numerous clinical studies have found that a Doula's presence at a birth:

*Tends to result in shorter labors with fewer complications
*Reduces negative feelings about one's childbirth experience
*Reduces the need for pitocin (a labor inducing drug), forceps/vacuum extraction, and cesareans
*Reduces the mothers request for pain medication and/or epidurals

~Research shows parents who receive support can:

*Feel more secure and cared for
*Are more successful in adapting to new family dynamics
*Have greater success with breastfeeding
*Have greater self-confidence
*Have less postpartum depression
*Have a lower incidence of abuse

What does a Birth Doula actually do?

~Once you have hired a Doula, you will typically start off with 3 prenatal visits. These visits consist of getting to know each other, and having a very open dialogue. She will ask you questions and discuss previous births, your current pregnancy, likes/dislikes, birthing wishes, concerns or fears that you may have, birthing plans ect. She will encourage you to be very proactive about your pregnancy and birthing plans, as well as giving you direction in where to go about finding out more information on all topics discussed. Your Doula is usually always available for questions and concerns in between your prenatal visits via phone or email.

~She will then be on call for the two weeks before and after your due date.

~Your Doula usually joins you for your labor when you are in need of her presence. You will be able to maintain contact if needed in the early hours of labor before she arrives. She remains with you for the rest of your labor and delivery. During labor she helps mom with coping and comfort techniques. She can perform massage, counter pressure, breathing techniques, relaxation, visualization, position suggestion, and helping the partner to be involved. She helps you to better communicate with your medical team so you can have the best possible birthing experience. She helps you with breastfeeding, and may also take pictures during and after your birth for you.

Will my partner feel left out?

~Absolutely not, a Doula is supportive to both the mother and her partner, and plays a crucial role in helping a partner become involved in the birth to the extent that he/she feels comfortable with. With her partner and a Doula at birth, a mother can have the best of both worlds: her partner's loving care and attention, and the Doula's expertise and guidance in childbirth.

Does a Doula replace my nursing staff?

~No. Doulas do not replace nurses or other medical staff. Doulas do not perform clinical or medical tasks such as taking blood pressure or temperature, monitoring fetal heart rate, doing vaginal examinations, or providing postpartum clinical care. They are there to comfort and support the mother and to enhance communication between the mother and medical professionals.

Does a Doula make medical decisions for me?

~A Doula does not make decisions for clients or intervene in their clinical care. She is an advocate for the family, but not their voice. She provides informational and emotional support, while respecting a womans decisions. A Doula wants you and your partner to feel empowered through the entire journey of childbirth. Informing yourself and making your own decisions is empowering.