You are having a baby and have heard a lot about Doulas but have questions. “Why would I hire a doula?” “What about my partner?” “Will it really help?” “Is it worth it?” Let’s discuss…
Throughout history, the overwhelming majority of birthers have been surrounded and assisted by others. Doulas bring this care back to our families in so many ways including:
1. Physical Support:
Doulas have intimate knowledge of positions to encourage the labor to progress and know other positions to try when things seem to have slowed. They use these positions strategically. Doulas know the right position for the right time to make space for the baby to do what needs to be done. Doulas may help with pain by utilizing massage or counter pressure. They may help you breath and stay in control of your body, especially if you are feeling out of control at moments. And they may do many of these at the same time — MAGIC!
2. Emotional Support:
Birth can be a charged experience where emotions and hormones are running high. Doulas are the calm in your storm and are there to ground you and your partner/support person. Emotional support can help reduce anxiety and stress so you are able to focus on the task at hand. Doulas are there for hard choices, difficult conversations, and excitement alike. They hold space during these times so you are able to feel nurtured, empowered, and capable of bringing this tiny human earth side.
3. Partner Support:
Doulas will never take the place of your partner, but rather complement and enhance the partners experience and their ability to support you! Your partner needs to remember to eat and hydrate too! Doulas will often tag team with your partner or support person, especially during physically taxing positions (I’m looking at you counter pressure! We want to keep it consistent and arms/shoulders lose their strength!) It allows everyone to stay fresh.
4. Informational Support:
You and your partner/support person may have many question throughout pregnancy, labor, birth, and postpartum. The doula is there to help explain what is happening and is usually just a phone call or text away (and it is way better then working with Dr. Google!). Doulas will help explain what is happening, keeping everyone calm, focused and feeling a part of this birth experience. In addition, we collaborate with many other birth professionals and can guide you to others we know and trust to help as needed.
5. Advocate Support:
Maybe you want someone to help advocate for your wishes or help remind you of your choices. Keeping in mind, Doulas do not make choices for you, but rather Doulas walk you through choices, pros and cons and sometimes help you find your own voice.
Choosing to hire a doula is a smart choice, but don’t just take our word for it – Data from the medical and scientific communities concur that having a doula reduces your chances of having a cesarean section, shortens labors, reduces the need for vacuums or forceps, and overall creates better birth outcomes for both the birther and the baby. This leads to a lower chance of postpartum mood disorders and in overall happiness with the birth experience for all. If you were an Olympic athlete – you would have a coach – this is no different. Doulas are your birth coach to navigate this experience (whether this is your first or your fifth baby. Every pregnancy and birth are different!). A coach to walk along side of you through your journey as a guide and a source of unconditional and non-judgmental support.
As Dr. John Kennell said “If a Doula were a drug, it would be unethical to not use it”.
Written by Teri Hatfield, CD (DONA), CD-PIC, BBCI Certified Birth & Postpartum Doula, Birth Boot Camp Childbirth Educator & Spinning Babies Parent Educator