My husband or partner will be with me - isn't that enough?
I can never replace the support and encouragement of your husband or partner. My role when working with a husband or partner is to support them too. I can make their experience much more positive for them by offering suggestions as to how they can better assist you during labor. While they may not feel the pain that you're feeling, they often feel anguish and a sense of helplessness while watching you go through the birth process. Some people deal with this emotional upheaval by "checking out." They may sleep, watch tv, or just seem to withdraw from you. We try to pull them back into the process by showing them how they can make you more comfortable and be there for you emotionally. Here are two wonderful articles about this topic by DONA's (Doulas of North America) for you to download.
Click here to download the PDF article Dads and Doulas from DONA.
Click here to download the PDF article about the Doula and Partner Working together.
Why should I hire a doula?
I believe every woman benefits from the special attention and continuity of care that a doula can give. Statistics repeatedly show that doulas can make a difference in the outcome of your birth. Here are a few examples taken from the book Mothering the Mother: How a Doula Can Help You Have a Shorter, Easier and Healthier Birth, by Klaus, Kennell, and Klaus (1993):
• 50% reduction in the cesarean rate
• 25% shorter labor
• 60% reduction in epidural requests
• 40% reduction in pitocin use
• 30% reduction in analgesia use
• 40% reduction in forceps delivery
What if I have already decided to get an epidural?
Some women assume that having an epidural means that you just sit back and enjoy your labor. A few things to keep in mind are that you must first get to an appropriate point to get an epidural, usually dilated to approximately 5 centimeters with an active labor pattern. Once you've received the epidural, you lose mobility and will be in bed, however, it is important you still change positions frequently to help move the baby down the birth canal. You may also experience the emotional impact of the labor as your body moves through the process. It is possible that once you request the epidural it may take time for an anesthesiologist to become available. As your doula, I will be there to give emotional and physical support and to help explain the procedures that go along with an epidural (IV, urinary catheter, continuous fetal monitors, etc.). An epidural may slow your labor progress, and we can work together to keep it moving along. It's also a perfect time for mom to get a relaxing massage and rest for the pushing stage of labor between position changes. It also allows your partner and other support people to take a break, get something to eat and/or rest while I stay by your side.
Is a doula a midwife?
No. As your doula, I follow DONA Internationals Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice.
I do not perform clinical or medical tasks such as taking blood pressure or temperature, fetal heart tone checks, vaginal examinations, or postpartum clinical care. While I am your advocate, I am not your voice.
It is my goal to do everything possible within my power to assist you in achieving the birth experience you desire. I will advocate for your wishes as expressed in your birth plan and during our conversations, by encouraging you to ask questions of your caregiver and to express your preferences and concerns. I help you incorporate changes in your plan if and when the need arises, and I enhance the communication between you and your caregiver. My role as your doula does not include speaking for or making decisions for you.
Do you come to my home when I'm in labor?
I can and am willing to, it depending on the type of service you request and your feelings when you're in labor. I will come to you when you need me wherever you are. It's possible you may spend early labor at home and you may wish me to be there to assist, or if you prefer, I can meet you at the hospital. Regardless of where we are, I can help make you comfortable and will be an attentive companion.
What if I end up having a Cesarean?
Cesareans are an important and sometimes necessary medical procedure. Childbirth can and does take some unexpected turns, and as your doula, I will be there to help you navigate through what may be a very stressful time. If at some point during labor a c-section is recommended, as your doula I will be able to guide you in asking questions that will help you gather necessary information about the reasons your caregiver recommends a cesarean, the risks and benefits relative to your particular situation and any alternatives you may have. When possible and time allows, I will facilitate you having time alone with your partner so you may process that information and come to a decision without feeling pressured. Couples who have a chance to process a cesarean recommendation in this way are more likely to believe that they made an informed decision rather than an uninformed one and are, therefore, more likely to be satisfied with a surgical outcome.
Other ways I might help with a cesarean section, planned or unplanned, include:
• Assisting in relaxation during the administration of the spinal or epidural
(if allowed by the anesthesiologist)
• Video taping or photographing the birth (if allowed in your particular hospital)
After surgery, as mom's anesthesia is wearing off, I can assist in breathing and relaxation, just as she might during labor. And, last, but not least, I will assist in initial breastfeeding just as after a vaginal birth.