Do I Need a Birth Doula?
Many expectant parents are exploring the options of having a doula with them to assist during their labors and births, the postpartum period, or both. Pregnancy and new parenthood are precious times in our lives, and the decisions that we make deserve care and attention.
Some frequent questions couples consider
What will my partner’s role be if there is a doula present?
Some prospective couples worry that with a doula present, the partner will be pushed aside and relegated to a more minor role. Ideally, the doula and the partner will work together to give the laboring mother a well-rounded and secure atmosphere in which to labor and give birth. That may mean that the doula is a “coach for the coach” offering suggestions, reminders, and acting as an advocate, or it may be that the doula is the primary “coach” freeing up the partner to be caring, loving, and supportive without the pressure of being the sole support of the laboring woman. The specific role of the doula is for each couple to determine and your doula to respect and honor.
Is a doula necessary if I am birthing with a midwife?
The roles of the midwife and birth doula are both valuable, but unique. While midwives provide emotional support and are often present upon arrival at the birthplace, some doulas are available at home during labor, helping you to decide when to leave for the birthplace, with the input of the midwife or doctor. Midwives often work in rotation with other midwives and/or doctors, and may provide care to more than one patient at a time, while the doula is a constant presence attending only one woman at a time.
A midwife’s primary role is to ensure the health and safety of the mother and baby, which, as expected, takes priority over other comfort measures and support. In the event of complications, while the midwife is providing medical care, the doula provides continuous emotional support to the mother and her partner. She may also meet with clients at home during the postpartum period.
This is not my first baby, so do I still need a birth doula?
Every birth and every baby is special, and you are only giving birth to this baby once. There is no way to know what challenges you may face during labor and birth. A good doula is there to provide much needed support, comfort measures, and advocacy for every mother, from the one giving birth for the first time, to the fourth time veteran, to the mother who previously used pain medication but now wants to have a natural birth.
Why do I need a doula if I want an epidural or other pain medications?
Regardless of what pain medications you choose, the doula is still an invaluable part of the birth team, assisting in the decision making process that includes the various options for pain relief, as well as assisting with position changes, and providing emotional support for the laboring mom and her partner. When considering a doula, be sure that she is there to support your choices for pregnancy, labor, and birth, including your choice of pain medication.
You may have other questions, and because there is a spectrum of care that differs from doula to doula and/or doula services, be sure to ask! Consider what services are included. Some doulas work extensively with their clients during the prenatal period; meeting with them, building a rapport, assisting in the decision making process, processing prior birth experiences, writing a birth plan, and including a postpartum visit. Your doula may even come to your home during labor to help decide when to leave for the birthplace.
Bottom line: Trust your instincts! Not all doulas or doula services are created equal and your birth is something that you will remember forever. Your birth and your baby are worth the most highly qualified, well-trained, and professional doula available!