Pregnancy is an exciting time filled with many questions. Will the nursery be pink or blue? How strong will those contractions really be? Will I ever sleep again?
One important question on the minds of many moms-to-be is, “Should I hire a birth doula?”. The answer is, “Yes”!
A birth doula provides physical, emotional and informational support to families during labor, birth and the immediate postpartum period. Some general examples of this kind of support include keeping you well hydrated and nourished, suggesting positions to help with comfort and labor progress, encouraging you through contractions, and facilitating communication between families and their midwife, doctor or nursing staff. A doula does not perform any clinical tasks such as fetal monitoring, vaginal exams or blood pressure checks. She also does not replace the partner’s role; however, she may be the sole support person for single mothers or if the partner cannot be present during labor.
Studies show that having a doula shortens the length of labor, decreases the need for medications and interventions like pitocin (the artificial form of oxytocin which is the hormone that causes the uterus to contract), vacuum, forceps or cesarean sections, and helps the mother have a more positive birth experience.
Hiring a doula can be particularly helpful if you are planning a hospital birth. Your favorite primary obstetrician or nurse-midwife may not be on call when you are in labor or may have other patients to care for at the same time. There may be a shift change while you are in labor. The doula will be able to provide you with consistent, uninterrupted support throughout the entire labor and birth. She will continue that support during the first hour or so after your baby is born, and can provide breastfeeding information and guidance if you choose.
DONA International, the leading certification organization for doulas, suggests having an initial phone interview with a prospective doula. Consider asking questions like the ones found on the following page.
The next step is to meet the doula in person for a no-obligation consultation. It’s a good idea to have your husband or partner attend this meeting, too. This is the ideal way to get to know the doula a bit more, ask her general questions about her practice, and begin to get a feeling as to whether or not the doula is a “good fit.” Share your questions, concerns, thoughts and philosophy about birth, including your birth plan if you’ve written one. Whether you desire a natural childbirth without medication, think you want to use epidural anesthesia, or have a wait-and-see approach, let the doula know. Remember that the doula will be at your side throughout this intimate, life-changing event so it’s crucial that you feel comfortable with her and trust that she will support your wishes, whatever they may be. It may be helpful to meet with more than one doula during the decision making process.
Once you choose the doula that is right for you, she will typically meet with you at least once more before labor begins. These prenatal meetings are an excellent way to clarify your expectations and the doula’s role. It is also the ideal time to discuss the doula’s on-call schedule and backup arrangements. Doulas are typically available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, during the few weeks before and after your estimated due date.
Labor can be unpredictable, but prior planning and good communication will ensure that your doula will be able to provide the personalized support you deserve to help you have a safe and satisfying birth as you define it.
QUESTIONS: Interviewing A Doula
DONA International, the leading certification organization for doulas, recommends asking the following questions:• What training and education do you have?
• What is your philosophy about childbirth and supporting women and their partners through labor?
• When do you try to join women in labor - at our home or at the place of birth?
• Will you meet with us to discuss our birth plans and the role that you will play in supporting us through childbirth?
• May we call you with questions or concerns before or after the birth?
• Do you work with one or more backup doulas for times when you are not available? May we meet them?
• What is your fee, what services does it include and what are your refund policies?
• Will you provide references?