HOW CAN MY BIRTHING DOULA SUPPORT ME?
It is important to understand that a doula is NOT a trained medical professional, and does not replace your midwife or provider. Instead, as they aren’t held up by the medical side of things, the doula can provide uninterrupted emotional support to you, your partner and your family.
A doula is a professional pregnancy companion whose goal is to help families have a safe, healthy and positive labor experience.
— whattoexpect.com —
The word doula comes from a Greek word meaning “a woman who serves”. And this is exactly what you can expect from your doula. She will serve and support you where you need her most. Here are a few things that you can expect from your doula:
Information and guidance
Whether you need help finding a prenatal massage therapist in your neighbourhood, or have some questions about the different stages of labour or types of induction, your doula has you covered. She can help you with research and answer questions that you might have throughout your pregnancy and thereafter. Your doula can also help you with your birth preference list.
Physical comfort and emotional support
Not only can your doula give you gentle massages or provide counter pressure during contractions, but she can also show your partner how to best support you physically during labour. Your doula will be your number one fan, supporting, encouraging and reassuring you all the way. She can also keep an eye on your partner to make sure that they are doing well.
Preparation
For me, this would be one of the most important reasons to get a doula. Talk to anyone that’s given birth. How many of them had the birth they planned for, with or without a doula. The reality is that there is just no way to say how it will play out. We are all different. Our bodies, minds and expectation are different. But if you are aware of all the different scenarios, and you are in control of each decision along the way, no matter what gets thrown at you, no matter if it was part of your plan or not, you will look back on your birth feeling empowered and happy.
