Birth Doula Care

Childbirth is a very physical and emotional experience. You cannot predict what will happen and how you will respond until you are in the moment. A Doula provides physical and emotional support as well as encouragement, massage, suggestions for positions and an overall sense of calm to the birthing environment.

Studies have shown that having a Doula present at birth results in:

  • 50% reduction in Cesarean birth rates
  • 25% shorter labour
  • 60% reduction in epidural requests
  • 40% reduction in Oxytocin use
  • 30% reduction in Analgesia use
  • 40% reduction in forceps or vacuum deliveries

"Women who have used a Doula are shown to be more satisfied with their birth experience, feel more confident in their ability to mother, bond faster with their newborn, are more likely to breastfeed, and are less likely to have post-partum depression." (Klaus,Kennel, and Kalause 2001.)

Do I need a Birth Doula?

Here is what a Birth Doula can offer you:

Informational Support:

  • Advocate your wishes with medical staff
  • Interventions explained - benefits, alternatives, and risks
  • Suggestions to help your partner be involved at his/her comfort level
  • Education you about your rights as a patient
  • Insight about your birthplace’s policies

Physical Support:

  • Massage and other techniques to help counter the pressure in your hips and lower back
  • Someone to make, retrieve, and apply hot or cold compresses, food, labour aid, water, and ice.
  • Positioning suggestions to help your baby descend faster and with the least discomfort as possible.

Emotional Support:

  • Verbal encouragement
  • Empathentic and supportive touch
  • Provide confidence in the birth process
  • A woman to woman connection
  • Relaxation technique suggestions and advice
  • Pain-coping practices

Environmental Support:

  • Visitor/phone call shield
  • Appropriate and safe Aromatherapy
  • Calming and encouraging Music
  • Peaceful presence
  • Soft lighting with LED candles.

Benefits for Partners:

  • Greater Confidence
  • Decreased Anxiety
  • Peace of Mind
  • Maintaining connection with the mother versus feeling like they need to know what to do or need to take care of other things
  • Ability to participate in the birthing process at his/her own comfort level
  • Ability to take breaks during the birthing process and know the mom is well supported
  • Being reminded to eat, drink, and rest

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