All About Doulas

Women supporting women during childbirth is an age-old custom that virtually disappeared in the U.S. when women began giving birth in hospitals nearly a century ago. Although most of us will birth our babies in hospitals, it is important to recognize that pregnancy and childbirth are not medical conditions. I believe in your power to birth your baby. I highly recommend assembling a loving support team, including a doula, to help you achieve your goal.

A doula:

·        Understands the physiology of birth and the emotional needs of the laboring mother

·        Provides advice during pregnancy

·        Offers exercise and physical suggestions to make pregnancy more comfortable

·        Assists the woman and her partner in preparing for and carrying out their plans for birth

·        Stays at the side of the laboring woman for the duration of her labor

·        Provides emotional support, physical comfort measures, and assists in acquiring the information needed to make informed decisions

·        Facilitates communication between the laboring woman, her partner, and clinical care providers

·        Explains medical procedures

·        Acts as the family's advocate

• Helps support the partner so that s/he can love and encourage the laboring woman

• Helps with breastfeeding preparation and beginnings

Numerous studies indicate that a doula's support during labor increases the chances of experiencing natural childbirth. Studies have shown that a Doula's attendance may decrease:

·        Length of labor by 25%

·        Epidural use by 60%

·        Cesarean birth by 50%

·        Oxytocin (Pitocin) use by 40%

·        Narcotics use by 30%

·        Forceps use by 40%

 (Information from Mothering the Mother: How a Doula Can Help You Have a Shorter, Easier and Healthier Birth, by Kennell, Klaus, and Kennell, 1993)

Doulas do not give medical advice or perform or interpret medical procedures such as vital signs, fetal heart tones, or vaginal exams. Nor do doulas make decisions or speak for their clients. She does not project her own values and goals onto her client, or discourage the woman from her choices.  Doulas provide the support and information the birthing mother and her partner need to make informed decisions.

The support of an experienced doula increases confidence and decreases fear and pain. By reducing fear and tension, your mind and body are able to tune into the power of your labor, resulting in fewer medical interventions. Women attended by a doula have a much higher success rate with breastfeeding, less postpartum depression, and fewer neonatal problems.

Link to Us  |  Link Partners  |  Webmaster Resources  |  Tell a Friend

Copyright © 2003-2006 Birth Harmony.  All Rights Reserved.