WHAT IF...
You could,
Decrease chance of Cesarean by 50%?
Lower the rate of Induction by 40%?
Shorten Labor by 25%?
Lessen your chance of an episiotomy?
Studies have shown that the attendance of a Doula at birth does just that.
What is a Doula?
The term doula is Greek for slave or servant. Doulas provide
emotional and physical
support during pregnancy, labor, birth and postpartum. They call
themselves many things including: Childbirth Assistant, Labor Support
Professional, Birth Assistant, Birth Companion, etc.
A doula does not speak for a couple, provide medical or clinical
skills, or act in any unprofessional manner. We do however provide
support and information that facilitates the ability of the couple to
advocate for themselves.
A doula provides:
- explanations of medical procedures
- emotional support
- advice during pregnancy
- exercise and physical suggestions to make pregnancy and labor more
comfortable
- help with the preparation of a birth plan
- massage and other non-pharmacological
pain relief measures
- positioning suggestions during labor and birth
- helps support the
partner so that they can love and encourage the laboring woman
- avoid unnecessary interventions
- help with initial breastfeeding
- written record of the birth
- uninterrupted labor support(no change of shift mid labor)
- help establish breastfeeding immediately following birth
- as well as a variety of support tailored to each families individual needs
How
Doulas Assist ChildBirthing Families
Doulas are labor support
professionals who are the newest members of today's maternity
care team. The Doula stays by the side of
the laboring woman and her partner(s) throughout labor.Partners
often feel more relaxed when they are part of a team and not
the sole supporter. Partners participate with confidence
and feel more emotionally available when they have assistance
and a role model during this intimate and challenging event.
Women and their partners experience increased satisfaction and
more positive memories of their birth when they are supported
by a Doula.