JOYFUL BIRTHING

1. What is a doula?

Birth doulas provide continuous physical and emotional support and assistance in gathering information for women and their partners during labor and birth. The doula offers help and advice on comfort measures such as breathing, relaxation, movement and positioning, and comforts the woman with touch, hot or cold packs, beverages, warm baths and showers, and other comforting gestures. She also assists the woman and her partner to become informed about the course of their labor and their options. Perhaps the most crucial role of the doula is providing continuous emotional reassurance and comfort for the entire labor.

 

2. What can a doula not do?

~ Perform clinical tasks, such as blood pressure check, fetal heart checks, vaginal exams, and others. I am there to provide only physical comfort and emotional support.

~ Make decisions for you. I will help you get the information necessary to make an informed decision. I will also remind you if there is a departure from your birth plan.

~ Speak to the staff on your behalf. I will discuss your concerns with you and suggest options, but you or your partner will speak directly to the clinical staff.

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3. Does a doula replace the role of a husband/partner?

No! The woman’s partner (the baby’s father or another loved one) is essential in providing support for the woman. A doula cannot make some of the unique contributions that the partner makes, such as a long-term commitment, intimate knowledge of the woman and love for her and her child. Ideally, the doula and the partner make the perfect support team for the woman, complementing each other’s strengths.

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4. Do birth outcomes improve with doula support?

Overall, yes. Here are a few statistics regarding doula support during labor:

~ 39% less likely to give birth by Cesarean Sectiion

~ 9% less likely to use pain medication

~ 41% less likely to need an assisted delivery

~ 35% less likely to be dissatisfied with her birth experience

~ 31% less likely to use synthetic oxytocin

 

5. Are there any disadvantages to doula support?

There are no disadvantages if you and your chosen doula are a good fit – meaning your doula’s personality and mannerisms make you feel at ease.

 

6. What if my labor goes long – will I be charged more?

Simply put, no! My fee remains the same regardless of the length of your labor and birth.

 

7. Do doulas support women with planned or emergency c-sections?

Yes. If it is your desire to have a vaginal birth, I will do all that I can to help you attain the birth you desire. However, if it is necessary for you to give birth to your baby via cesarean section, I will remain with you the entire time and into recovery.

 

8. What is the difference between a birth doula and a post-partum doula?

A birth doula supports mom and family during the prenatal time, as well as through the labor and birth of the baby.

A postpartum doula does not attend the birth of the baby. He/she provides support to mom, baby, and family in the months after birth. She may support the family via emotional support, assistance with childcare, light housekeeping, meal prep, and she typically serves as a resource to help make sure mom and family are getting all of the support they need.

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9. Is a doula the same thing as a midwife?

No. A doula provides no medical or nursing care. Since she doesn’t have these responsibilities, or other patients to attend to, she can give her complete attention to being by a woman’s side for the entire length of her labor.

 

10. Can a doula help if a woman has an epidural?

Yes. My hands-on training with DONA involved many techniques to support mom physically during a medicated birth. With the use of a peanut ball, rebozo, and changing of positions, it is possible for the birthing mom to have an uncomplicated vaginal birth. If you choose to have an epidural, I will continue to provide emotional and physical support.