Labor To Love

What is a doula?

A doula can be described in many ways. What it means to me is somebody who is aiding and supporting you in order to achieve a positive birth experience.

What a doula can do for you?

What type of birth are you looking for? What do you want to happen during your labor? Are you going to try a medication free labor/birth or are you looking to have pain medication as soon as possible? A trained doula will ask you all of these questions and help you find the answers. When you have a doula you also lower the chances of having medical interventions:

25% shorter labor
30% reduction in analgesia use
40% reduction in oxytocin use
40% reduction in forceps use
50% reduction in cesarean rates
60% reduction in epidural requests

Here is what a Birth Doula can offer you:

Informational Support:

Interventions explained - benefits, alternatives, and risks
Suggestions to help your partner be involved at his/her comfort level
Educate you about your rights as a patient
Insight about your birthplace’s policies

Physical Support:

Massage and other techniques to help counter the pressure in your hips and lower back
Someone to make, retrieve, and apply hot or cold compresses, food, labor aid, water, and ice.
Positioning suggestions to help your baby descend faster and with the least discomfort as possible.

Emotional Support:

Verbal encouragement
Empathentic and supportive touch
Provide confidence in the birth process
A woman to woman connection
Relaxation technique suggestions and advice
Pain-coping practices

Environmental Support:

Visitor/phone call shield
Appropriate and safe Aromatherapy
Calming and encouraging Music
Peaceful presence
Soft lighting with LED candles.

Benefits for Partners:

Greater Confidence
Decreased Anxiety
Peace of Mind
Maintaining connection with the mother versus feeling like they need to know what to do or need to take care of other things
Ability to participate in the birthing process at his/her own comfort level
Ability to take breaks during the birthing process and know the mom is well supported
Being reminded to eat, drink, and rest

What doulas do not do

As a doula, I can not take blood pressure, asses fetal heart tones, or give vaginal exams. One service I do not provide is speaking for you. Instead, I will help you find your voice and make sure you understand what is happening during your labor and birth. I will do this by answering questions, providing feedback, and reviewing your birth plan with you.