Reasons You Need A Birth Doula – Elyvation Station

Reasons you need a birth doula…

To Help You Create A Birth Plan

Before going into labor, it’s a good idea to think about your wishes regarding your labor and birth and to record these preferences in a written birth plan for your doctors and nurses to reference. A doula can help educate you on your options and the benefits and risks of each option. Your doula will then help you prepare your Birth Plan.

To Offer Physical Support During Labor

Doulas are trained in techniques to help you manage the intensity of labor and to make it as comfortable as possible. Whether she is massaging your back, applying pressure in key places, or helping you shift into more comfortable and productive positions, your doula’s expertise will help you get through each contraction.

To Provide Emotional Support During Birth

Doulas are known for the calming presence they bring to a birth. With the encouragement, support, and the expert knowledge that comes from attending many births, you will be able to set your mind at ease and focus on what your body needs to do. Having a “birth expert” by your side provides the freedom to trust that when doula says, “You’re doing great and everything is fine” that it truly is fine.

To Create Your Ideal Birth Environment

Would you prefer dimmed lights? Do you have a playlist of encouraging music you’d like to hear while you labor? Do you want someone to moan along with you? Whatever your environmental birth preferences are, you can rely on your doula to create your ideal birth environment to adjust as needed throughout your labor and birth.

To Take Care of Your Basic Needs

In the middle of labor, you’d be surprised how easy it is for BOTH mom and dad to forget important things like drinking water and going to the bathroom. Whether she is holding the water bottle for you in between contractions, or helping you to use the restroom after birth, a doula is able to not only remind you both to take care of these necessities, but is able to assist in the process. Additionally, her presence allows your partner the freedom to run to the restroom or grab a quick snack without leaving you alone.

To Help Your Partner Help You

Birth, particularly that of a first child, can be daunting and scary, not only for the mother herself, but also for her partner. A doula does not replace the support of your partner, but through her expert support and encouragement, equips your partner to support you more effectively.

To Answer Your Questions & Help Prepare You For Labor

As a result of their extensive training and attendance at other births, doulas are a wealth of knowledge when it comes to having a baby. During your doulas prenatal visits, she will make sure you are prepared for birth. If you have any questions during pregnancy, labor or postpartum, your doula is a trusted resource.

To Remind You of Your Desires and Wishes

Your doula will be well versed in your birth plan and is available to help you ensure that your wishes are honored as much as medically possible. This advocacy may come in the form of encouraging you to ask questions, mediating conversations between you and your care providers, or amplifying your questions or concerns.

Studies have shown that the physiological effects of continual support during labor reduces:

chances of needing a c-section by 51 percent length of labor by 25 percent use of analgesia by 35 percent pitocin augmentation by 40 percent epidural anesthesia use by 60 percent use of forceps and vacuum by 30 percent