dou·la [doo-luh] noun a woman who assists women during labor and after childbirth. origin: 1975-80; < Mod Greek: female servant. now used to refer to a trained and experienced professional who provides continuous physical, emotional and informational support to the mother before, during, and just after birth; or who provides emotional and practical support during the postpartum period.
A doula does not provide medical care but does have knowledge and experience to help her clients understand the procedures of labor and birth, so Mom and her team can make informed decisions regarding their choices they need to make.
During Pregnancy...
I am a trained doula, available to assist women with the preparation for the birth of their baby, or babies! I will help her research her options and to understand the information. I will help Mom to decide on a birth plan of her choosing. We will meet in person, once or twice, during pregnancy; talk on the phone many times; and use modern messaging systems innumerably! We will build a relationship so Mom feels comfortable with asking questions and sharing concerns.
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During Labor...
I will come to Mom when she feels she needs me, whether that's at home or at the hospital. I will provide emotional and directional support to Mom and her family and/or support team to achieve the best labor and birth outcome possible. I work for Mom and her baby and no one else. I desire to promote positive communication between mother, her partner and the PCP (primary care provider) and staff. I am there from the beginning of labor until after birth. I am there to serve Mom!
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Postpartum & Breastfeeding...
A doula is there for mom and baby after birth, until the family is comfortable, usually a couple of hours. Dad may be busy with baby while I am still attending Mom. I can also help get breastfeeding started. I then will make a postpartum visit after a day or two, to check in and offer any supportive advice, talk about and process the birth, and hopefully I will get the opportunity to hold an adorable baby!
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For Daddies...
My role as a doula is not to usurp the role of Dad, which is to love and support his partner. This is his experience also. I support the couple working together in this process of a family blooming! I can help support the father so he can concentrate on Mom. I am the person from the beginning to the end that is a consistent & rational voice. I help with remembering the birth plan. I can help Dad understand what Mom may be feeling, and offer an opinion so that he can do the work and support himself. I can bring snacks and drinks for Mom's and Dad's energy. If labor lasts a long time, I am present so Dad can take a break if needed. A Dad can use a lot of energy during labor also! Maybe Dad prefers the doula to fully support Mom, while he just loves on his partner. Society places a lot of pressure on modern day daddies during labor... but sometimes the experience is challenging for the new and nervous dad. During the prenatal visits, Doula, Dad and Mom can sit together and discuss how they envision the birth. It's important for Dad to be comfortable with the decision of choosing who will be attending this important moment of life.
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Antepartum, Birth & Postpartum: please let me explain further...
I've explained a lot about what a birth doula does. Now let's talk about the other hats I may be able to wear for you. An antepartum doula is for a high-risk or difficult pregnancy. I can comfort you and gather information so you don't feel alone. I can help with light housekeeping and meals. Much like a postpartum doula: I can support you, listen to you, and care for you and your baby... or babies! It can be challenging after the birth, even overwhelming. Add in the hormonal changes... whew! Antepartum & Postpartum doulas usually charge an hourly rate, but it can depend on the mom's needs. I would be more than a maid or babysitter, I am there to support, educate, advise: but not for medical care. This sort of role is especially useful for those without a support system around.
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