WHAT IS A LABOR DOULA?
"A birth doula is a person trained and experienced in childbirth who provides continuous physical, emotional and informational support to the mother before, during and just after childbirth."
- DONA INTERNATIONAL
- DONA INTERNATIONAL
MY ROLE AS YOUR DOULA
I will assist you in preparing for childbirth by providing resources and education on birth options. Emotional support is just as important as informational, so I stay well connected with you throughout your pregnancy to ensure your needs are met. Prenatal visits are a great time to go over your birth plan as well as address any fears or concerns.
I provide continuous support during labor and delivery. My role is to work alongside your husband or partner, not replace him/her. Comfort measures such as counter pressure, massage, position changes and relaxation techniques are used. A peaceful birth environment is key so words of encouragement will always be provided. After the baby is born, I will remain with you for an hour or two to ensure you are comfortable and if desired, breastfeeding is going well.
I will come over for your postpartum visit once you're settled at home and ready for visitors. This is a good time to reflect on the birth and go over anything that needs attention.
I provide continuous support during labor and delivery. My role is to work alongside your husband or partner, not replace him/her. Comfort measures such as counter pressure, massage, position changes and relaxation techniques are used. A peaceful birth environment is key so words of encouragement will always be provided. After the baby is born, I will remain with you for an hour or two to ensure you are comfortable and if desired, breastfeeding is going well.
I will come over for your postpartum visit once you're settled at home and ready for visitors. This is a good time to reflect on the birth and go over anything that needs attention.
WHAT DOULAS DO NOT DO
Doulas are NOT medical professionals
They do not perform clinical tasks such as vaginal exams or fetal heart monitoring
They do not give medical advice or diagnose conditions
They do not judge you for your decisions that you make
They do not let their personal values or biases get in the way of caring for you
They do not take over the role of your husband or partner
They do not deliver the baby
They do not change shifts
Taken from www.evidencebasedbirth.com
They do not perform clinical tasks such as vaginal exams or fetal heart monitoring
They do not give medical advice or diagnose conditions
They do not judge you for your decisions that you make
They do not let their personal values or biases get in the way of caring for you
They do not take over the role of your husband or partner
They do not deliver the baby
They do not change shifts
Taken from www.evidencebasedbirth.com
Here is an excellent video by Author, Childbirth Educator and Doula, Penny Simkin, on the role of a Doula
