What Does A Doula Do?
Labor Doula Services
What does a birth doula do? The birth doula assists a woman and her partner during labor to help them cope with the physical and emotional demands of birth.
Why should I use a birth doula? Numerous clinical studies have found that both mothers and babies benefit when a doula is present during birth.
The positive effects for mothers, according to these studies, include:
- Shorter labors with fewer complications
- Reduced incidence of cesareans
- Reduced use of pitocin (a drug used to induce or augment labor)
- Reduced use forceps or vacuum extraction (techniques to help with delivery)
- Reduced requests for pain medication and epidurals
- Reduced incidence of postpartum depression
- Mothers report increased satisfaction with the birth process
- Mothers make more positive assessments of their babies
What is my partner’s role if a doula is present? Your partner remains your primary support person. The doula complements your partner’s efforts by providing emotional and physical support to both you and your partner.
Does a doula replace the hospital staff? No. The doula works with you, your partner and the hospital staff to enhance your birth experience. She will explain and discuss childbirth procedures and practices with you, if you would like.
Does a doula make decisions for me? No. The doula will answer your questions to help you make decisions, but does not make them for you.
I can help you prepare your birth plan, communicate more effectively with your care provider, work with you and your partner prepare for roles and relaxation for the big day. labor with you at home for as long as you wish or meet you directly at your birth center or hospital. I am there there for every contraction. Im there to root you on and empower you weather you choose to have pain medication or not!