How a Doula Can Help You
Numerous studies have shown that having a Doula results in fewer medical interventions, including cesarean section and forceps/vacuum extraction. Women with a Doula require less pain relief medication and often report an easier and more pleasant birth experience. Families supported by Doulas show greater confidence in the weeks following the birth.
The baby also benefits after a mother has had Doula support. Mothers and babies who have had a Doula have been shown to breastfeed better and for longer. Maternal depression and anxiety are also reduced. Studies shows that mothers who have had Doula support
are more affectionate towards their babies. Below are statistics from "Mothering The Mother: How a Doula Can Help You Have a Shorter, Easier and Healthier Birth" - Klaus, Kennell, and Klaus (1993).
During your labour and birth your Doula will provide you with continuous physical and emotional support. She will be by your side to provide you with all that you need. She will help you to understand clearly what is going on throughout your labour and birth. She’ll help explain any procedures so that you can decide what you truly want or don’t want. She will help you (and your partner) advocate for yourself and your baby. If you are giving birth in a hospital, as many women do, you may expect that a nurse or midwife will be able to to do these things. The reality is that there are just not enough nurses and midwives to be able to give a labouring woman continuous one-to-one attention. Nurses and midwives usually have to care for several labouring women at one time. You may also have more than one nurse or midwife caring for you throughout your labour due to shift changes.
A Doula will stay with you from the time that you call her until after your baby is born and you and your family are ready for her to leave. Your Doula is specially trained to know exactly how to best support you during labour and birth. You will have probably met with her a few times throughout pregnancy to get to know her. She is there for you, and only you.
Doulas Help Dads, and All Labour Partners
You might wonder why you need a Doula if your partner is going to be at the birth as your labour support person. The support of your partner is extremely important and a Doula, in no way, is there to take their place and role. In fact, a Doula can enhance your birth partner’s experience as well as yours.
Your Doula can help your partner remember everything that was learned in childbirth classes. Doulas offer experienced suggestions as to how your partner can help you. If your partner is worried about being a “labour coach” he or she can relax and draw on the wisdom of your Doula. She will give you the physical support you need during labour while you are reassured by your partner’s presence.
Your partner will also be able to take breaks and go to the bathroom or get a drink because you will be well taken care of by your Doula. Your partner’s confidence will be increased by her presence. Her calm will help your partner stay calm.
A Doula understands how women instinctively act during labour. What may seem strange or even scary to your partner is normal for your Doula. She understands what you're experiencing and will support you in whatever way she can to enable you to achieve your goal of a positive, beautiful and amazing birth experience.....