Why Should I Hire a Birth Doula?
You Should Hire a Birth Doula because, a birth doula is a professional trained in childbirth who provides continuous physical, emotional and informational support to the mother before, during and after childbirth. Doulas are not medically trained and do not provide medical care, but rather complement the care provided by the mother’s health care provider.
So why should you hire a doula? Below are some key reasons:
- Doulas provide continuous support.
During labor, a doula will be with you throughout your entire labor, providing physical and emotional support. She will also provide guidance and answer any questions you or your partner may have. This is in contrast to nurses who are responsible for multiple mothers and therefore cannot provide the same continuity of care. - Doulas can help reduce the length of labor.
Studies have shown that when doulas are present, labors are shorter on average by about two hours. They are also associated with a decrease in the use of pitocin (a medication used to induce or speed up labor) by 41%, epidurals by 28%, and forceps or vacuum delivery by 32%. - Doulas can help reduce the need for pain medication.
If you are hoping to avoid or limit your use of pain medication during labor, a doula can help. One study found that 58% of women who used a doula during labor required no pain medication, compared to just 6% of women who did not have a doula. - Doulas can help improve your birth experience overall.
Having a doula has been shown to improve satisfaction with the birth experience, even for women who end up having C-sections. In one study, 93% of women who had a doula said they would recommend using one to other mothers. - Doulas can help reduce your risk of postpartum depression.
Postpartum depression is a very real and serious problem that affects many mothers after they give birth. Thankfully, hiring a doula can help reduce your risk. In one study, women who had doulas were less likely to experience postpartum depression than women who did not have doulas (5% vs 22%). - Doulas can help you feel more prepared for motherhood.
Doulas not only provide support during labor and delivery, but they can also help you feel more prepared for motherhood in general. They can provide guidance on everything from breastfeeding to newborn care to postpartum recovery. And because they are there to support you throughout the entire process, they can help reduce feelings of anxiety and uncertainty.
What is a Doula and What Do They Do?
A doula is a trained professional who provides continuous physical, emotional, and informational support to a mother. Before, during, and just after childbirth to help her achieve the healthiest, most satisfying experience possible. Doulas can be particularly beneficial to first-time mothers, those who are having a Cesarean birth, or anyone who wants extra support.
The word “doula” comes from the ancient Greek meaning “a woman who serves” and is now used to refer to a trained and experienced professional who provides continuous support to a mother before, during, and just after childbirth.
Many mothers who have a doula say that they feel more prepared for childbirth and more confident about their ability to give birth. They also report feeling more satisfied with their birth experience overall.
There are many benefits of hiring a birth doula, which include:
- Continuous physical, emotional, and informational support during labor and birth
- A calming presence during a time that is often filled with anxiety and uncertainty
- Help with coping techniques for pain management
- Support in making informed decisions about your care
- Assistance with breastfeeding after birth
- Postpartum support in the days and weeks after childbirth
The bottom line is that a doula can provide much-needed support during one of the most challenging—and ultimately rewarding—times in a woman’s life.
If you are interested in finding a birth doula, you can check Tracy Harley (B*E*S*T Doulas)
How Can a Birth Doula Help During Labor and Delivery?
Giving birth is one of the most amazing, life-changing experiences that a woman can go through. And while some women feel they can do it alone or with the support of their partner or family, others feel they could benefit from the help of a doula.
So, what is a doula? A doula is a trained professional who provides physical, emotional and informational support to a woman during labor, delivery and the postpartum period. Doulas are not medical professionals, but they can provide guidance and support throughout the childbirth process.
Studies have shown that having a doula can lead to shorter labors, reduced need for pain medication and decreased incidence of cesarean sections. Additionally, doulas can provide invaluable support to the father or partner, who may be feeling just as anxious and helpless as the mother.
The doula’s role is to help the mother feel as comfortable and relaxed as possible during childbirth. They can do this by providing massage, counterpressure, breathing and visualization techniques, and offering emotional support. They can also help advocate for the mother’s wishes and needs, and provide information about the labor process and what to expect.
How Does a Doula Help Before and After Delivery?
Women who have birth doulas report higher satisfaction with their birth experience, and feel more supported emotionally. The presence of a doula also allows the father or other support person to be more involved in the birth, rather than feeling like they need to “take care” of the mother.
So why should you hire a doula? Because a doula can help you have a shorter, less painful labor, and a more satisfying birth experience. If you are looking for continuous physical, emotional and informational support throughout your pregnancy, childbirth and postpartum period, a doula is an excellent investment.
How to Find a Birth Doula
When you decide to hire a birth Doula, it is important to find one that is qualified. There are many ways to become a Doula, but not all of them are equal. The best way to find a Doula is to look for one who is certified by an organization such as BEST Doulas.