Please view the slideshow for an overview of what a birth doula is and why they are helpful for pregnancy, labor and birth.

 

 

A doula accompanies women in labor to help ensure a safe and satisfying birth experience. They draw on their knowledge and experience as a doula to provide emotional support, physical comfort and, as needed, communication with other caregivers to make sure that you have the information you need to make informed decisions as they arise in labor. Doulas can provide reassurance and perspective to you and your partner (if present), make suggestions for labor progress, and help with relaxation, massage, positioning and other techniques for comfort.

 

A doula is typically independent and self-employed. As your doula, they work for you, not your caregiver or hospital.

 

Numerous clinical studies have found that a doula's presence at birth:

 

·  tends to result in shorter labors with fewer complications

·  reduces negative feelings about one's childbirth experience

·  reduces the need for pitocin (a labor-inducing drug), forceps or vacuum extraction and    cesareans

·  reduces the mother's request for pain medication and/or epidurals

 

Research shows parents who receive support can:

 

·  feel more secure and cared for

·  are more successful in adapting to new family dynamics

·  have greater success with breastfeeding

·  have greater self-confidence

·  have less postpartum depression

·  have lower incidence of abuse         
 

A doula does not:

·  Perform clinical tasks, such as taking blood pressure, fetal heart checks, vaginal exams, and others. A doula is there to provide only physical comfort, emotional and informational support and advocacy.

·  Make decisions for you. Doulas will help you get the information necessary to make an informed decision and remind you if there is a departure from your Birth Plan.

·  Speak to the staff instead of you regarding matters where decisions are made. Doulas will discuss your concerns with you and suggest options, and will help you identify key questions that may help you with your decisions, but you or your partner is the best person to speak to the clinical staff. 

 

Doulas will not prescribe, diagnose or treat any medical problems that may arise and will not be liable for interpreting diagnostic procedures. This is the role of your care provider.