The Role of a Doula in Childbirth: What Expectant Parents Need to Know

So you've heard the term "doula" thrown around, but you have a lot of questions! I totally understand. With more women wanting increased control of their birthing experiences, and evidence suggesting doulas are a good idea, I'm here to explain what a doula is and isn't. Hopefully you'll walk away with a clearer picture. This article isn't a history lesson, but please know that women have been supporting other women in childbirth for ages, and it's a beautiful, powerful thing.

What a doula isn't

This is the easy part. A doula is not a medical provider. This means a doula is not your OB, midwife, or nurse. They are not going to check your vital signs or cervix, administer an IV or pain medications, or deliver your baby. Doulas are not trained medical providers and they don't try to be. Pretty simple.

I also think that it's important to say that although a doula is a huge advocate for you, they do not steal your voice. Doulas may encourage and assist you in finding ways to ask questions, obtain information, and otherwise express yourself, but do not speak for you or make decisions for you.

What a doula is

A doula is a labor companion who provides continuous emotional support, information, and physical comfort before, during, and just after childbirth. A doula supports the mother, but also works alongside those closest her which will support her in labor, such as the child's father, a friend, sister, mother, etc.

A birth doula: (adapted from DONA)

• understands the key life experience of birth, one that will be remembered forever

• understands the physiological process of birth and the emotional needs of a someone during labor

• assists clients and their partner(s) in preparation and carrying out their plans for birth

• stays with the laboring client as a continuous support throughout labor

• provides an objective view, assists in obtaining information for decision-making

• provides emotional support and physical comfort measures

• facilitates communication between clients and their clinical care providers

• nurtures and protects the client's memory of their birth experience

How a doula may benefit you

There are many benefits linked to using continuous labor support from a doula. A large systemic overview summarizes that there are clinically meaningful benefits of continuous labor support for people and infants, with no know harm. It concludes, "All should have support throughout their labor and birth." (Hodnett and colleagues, 2011)

Other research suggests that continuous support during labor is linked to:

• increased likelihood of spontaneous birth (without cesarean, forceps, or vacuum)

• shorter labor

• decreased use of epidural and pain medications

• increased satisfaction of childbirth experience

 

In Summary

Navigating your pregnancy, birth, and postpartum can sometimes be overwhelming. A doula, with professional training and experience, can help you through the twists and turns along the road. As a doula, I aim to provide you with the information, emotional support, and physical comfort measures you need for a positive and empowering birth experience!

If you are considering investing in the support of a doula, I encourage you to reach out and take advantage of a complementary consult. Finding a doula that you really feel comfortable with is important. I'd love to hear from you!