A Doula is a woman knowledgeable in childbirth who provides continuous physical, emotional and informational support to the mother before, during and just after childbirth. Trained Doulas are aware of the physiology of birth and the emotional needs of a woman in labor. Generally, Doulas believe that pregnancy and birth are normal, natural and healthy processes. This includes preparation for birth helping the laboring woman with support, comfort measures, relaxation techniques, and an intentful viewpoint, as well as support after childbirth, such as help with breastfeeding and postpartum care.
A Doula is also person who attends the birthing family before, during, and just after the birth of the baby, and the birth of the family. The certified doula is trained to offer emotional support from the family in all birth settings.
How Does a Doula Serve a Family?
The doula serves as an advocate, labor coach, and an informative resource for the mother and her partner the added comfort of additional support all through the entire labor. Certainly, having loved ones such as a spouse with the mother does provide some added comfort and support. However, as the published literature continues to show, it is the support of a trained and experienced woman that results in the greatest benefits. It is important for the doula to offer up to date current resources and information to the parents. Birth Arts Doulas can do this.
The doula also acts as a go between for mother and care staff, spouse or partner and family and visitors.
What Does a Doula Do?
The following is a basic description of what you might expect from a Birth Arts certified labor doula. Typically, doulas meet with the parents in the second or third trimester of the pregnancy to get acquainted and to learn about prior birth experiences and the history of this pregnancy. She may help you develop a birth plan, teach relaxation, visualization, and breathing skills useful for labor. Most importantly, the doula will provide comfort, support, and information about birth options.
The following is a basic description of what you might expect from a Birth Arts certified labor doula. Typically, doulas meet with the parents in the second or third trimester of the pregnancy to get acquainted and to learn about prior birth experiences and the history of this pregnancy. She may help you develop a birth plan, teach relaxation, visualization, and breathing skills useful for labor. Most importantly, the doula will provide comfort, support, and information about birth options.
A doula provides
- Information to the parents that is current and evidence based.
- Uninterrupted labor support for the mother during labor.
- Emotional, physical and personal support.
- Helps the mother to relax and rest in labor
- Encourage proper nutrition and work with her to attain proper nutrition
- Being a presence in the environment that assists the woman feels secure and confident.
- Providing her with and information on birth options.
