What is A Doula?
A doula can be beneficial to both, but mainly for the mom and dad during pregnancy.
Doualing is an act of educating, loving, respecting, listening, embracing, advocating for and assisting a women prenatally during labour, childbirth and after.
Doulas are ordinarily experienced women who may have received some basic training, however, they can not replace the clinical care that a midwife may give or that of a doctor. They provide emotional and practical support to mothers during pregnancy, birth and after childbirth.
Giving birth is an incredible experience that will not be forgotten. Doulas have a passion for birth, their main goal is to make the birthing experience nurturing, empowering and life-changing.
What does a doula do?
Some of a doula’s activities consist of:
- Providing emotional and physical support.
- Giving the correct information and helping the mother research birth options.
- Using various comfort methods.
- Accommodating the mother’s wishes when giving birth.
- Encouraging the mother to research various procedures and interventions.
- Help support the father/partner to comfort the mother.
You’re welcome to read up more about a doula’s activities here:
Doulas 101
A doula does not replace the father/partner, instead, they suggest ways in which they can help the mother. They help improve the experience for both the mom and dad/partner.
Now husbands/partners play a more active role in the birth process. However, some partners prefer being in the next room, this is where the doula steps in. Studies have proved that having a doula as part of the “birth team” has had many benefits by decreasing:
- the cesarean rate by 50%
- the length of labour by 25%
- the use of oxytocin by 40%
- the requests for an epidural by 60%
You can read up about how to get your partner involved in the birthing process here:
New Baby? Here’s How to Get Your Partner Involved.
Doulas are there to help and support moms and dads during pregnancy and the birthing experience. They help in supporting mom and partner and they allow you to explore all the available options that help with the birth that you want.
