A Doula’s Work
A Labor of Love
Few would argue that there is nothing more wondrous than the birth of a child. For centuries, the organic process of childbirth has been something that has been celebrated and revered. Until the beginning of the 19th century, childbirth in America was centered on a mother’s innate knowledge of herself and the needs of her and her baby. Today in our world of hospitals and medical advances, the instinctive and natural process of giving birth is too often derailed because even healthy and low risk deliveries are viewed as a medical event that are dangerous and risky. For an expectant mother desiring to experience a birth that reflects her values and preferences, it can be a challenging task to try and navigate the many decisions she will face during her labor. Indeed, there are many options of care available to her. A doula, pronounced /doo-lah/ and meaning "woman's servant", is an advocate for the mother's choices and rights without judgment. By providing continuous emotional, physical, and educational support, she is a guide through a mother’s pregnancy and childbirth journey.
What is the Role of a Doula?
The needs of the expectant mother are a doula’s number one priority. She explains the physiological and emotional processes of birth while aiding the family in obtaining all the necessary information available on their options during labor and delivery. While working together with the mother’s partner and medical team, a doula offers the laboring mother advice and assistance with comfort measures such as breathing, positioning, movement and relaxation. She is the calm strength in an oftentimes overwhelming course. Her trust in the birth process, as well her understanding that there is a time and place for medical intervention, radiates confidence onto the laboring woman. A good doula does not talk the mother into any procedures or birthing style but respects each mother’s healthy choices and acknowledges that every birth is as unique as the mother herself. By providing continuous reassurance and support, a doula assists the laboring mother in achieving the birth experience of her choice, connecting her with generations of mothers who have gone before her.
Benefits of a Doula
Research findings indicate the value of having a doula during childbirth can provide extraordinary benefits. Doula supported births can benefit from a 50% lower chance of having a cesarean, a 25% shorter labor, a 40% reduction in the use of pitocin, a 60% reduction in epidural requests, a 40% reduction in the need for forceps, a decreased chance of postpartum depression and a greater chance of expressing satisfaction with their overall birth experience.
Finding the Right Doula for You
The most important aspect of hiring a doula may not be her credentials but rather who you feel most connected with during this intimate time. The doula you chose will be at your side throughout this cherished, life-changing event. Trust and a natural connection are crucial to the experience you desire. It may be helpful to meet with more than one doula during the decision making process. Questions for birth doulas are generally along the lines of:
- Why did you choose to become a doula?
- Are you certified? By whom?
- Do you have a backup that I can meet?
- What is your “philosophy about birth?
- What services do you provide?
- When do you join me in labor?
- How long do you stay after the baby is born?
- How do you feel about working with couples that choose epidurals and other interventions?
- What is your fee and how does your payment schedule work?
The birth of a child will undoubtedly change a woman forever and how her baby enters the world is something she will never forget. It is possible to experience a birth defined by peace, empowerment, and joy. Fortunately, this journey does not have to be hers alone. For a doula, it is always a privilege to be connected to such a wondrous beginning for that is her true labor of love.
