Benefits of a Doula
24-7 Accessibility
Doulas are available for in person, E-mail, text, and phone support before birth, even at 3am. Often, these conversations are in regards to minor questions that the mother would not feel comfortable bothering her midwife/OB with. There is no such thing as a "silly question" or a "silly call" to a doula.
Unbiased Support
A doula is there for you and your partner, nobody else. Doulas don’t work for a midwife, birth center, or hospital. They answer only to YOU. They are not busy caring for the medical aspects of birth, but solely there to make sure you do well physically, mentally and emotionally.
Encouragement
Most doulas have many births under their belt and have even given birth themselves. It can be very encouraging to have someone present who has “been there, done that.” When a doula says, “you’re doing great” it may mean more to the mother than her partner saying those words.
Nourishing. To Everyone.
Because of the intensities of birth, mom, dad and family members can forget to take care of themselves. A doula will always happily offer reminders for everyone to eat, drink, change positions and go to the bathroom. Doulas aren’t only there to serve the mom, but also for the husband/partner.
Statistics Support Doulas
Statistically, a doula that provides continuous labor support is a key player in creating excellent outcomes for mothers and their babies.
It is proven in several studies that a mother giving birth with a doula present are:
- more likely to give birth spontaneously
- less likely to give birth via caesarean or with a vacuum or forceps
- less likely to use pain medications
- more likely to be satisfied
- had slightly shorter labors
Also, their babies had higher Apgar scores.
Laboring at Home
Many women hire a doula so that they will be able to labor at home as long as possible before heading to their hospital/birth center. Ideally, most women seeking a non-medicated birth want to arrive at the hospital around transition (just before the pushing stage.) With a doula present, it is easier to distinguish where the mother is at in the stages of labor. Many parents head to the hospital too early, and some unfortunately go too late. A doula is one more added layer of support to ensure the parents arrive at the hospital/birthing center at the right time.
Walking Birth Plan
Birth is not predictable or straight forward. Sometimes written birth plans go unread and may even evoke negative feelings and energy from care providers. Doulas are excellent at encouraging the mother and their partner to make their requests known as situations arise, so that the mother can stay focused on her birth. Doulas are also valuable to have on hand to navigate any changes in the mother’s birth plans.
Help with the Intensity of Birth
Labor can be more intense than you envision, even if you have given birth before. Most first time mothers are very surprised by the intensity of birth. A doula is helpful because she provides a calm, encouraging presence which can eliminate fear and therefore decrease pain. Also, doulas are helpful in intense birth scenarios because they provide reminders that what she is experiencing is normal.
Takes Pressure off Dad
Historically, dads have never been expected to assist moms in birth. Today, this is completely the opposite. Many dads are expected to perform as if they were actually a doula. Often, having a doula present at the birth will take some pressure off of the husband/partner. This is turn, creates an atmosphere where the husband/partner can be more present in the birth.
Won’t Leave Your Side
The baby is here. But it’s not time for the doula to go home yet. A doula will stay with you and your new family until you are settled and ready for her to leave. She is there for you, as long as you need her.