DOULA SERVICES 

Medical research has shown time and again the importance of emotional support during labour and birth to enhance our experience of birth as well as positively influence the birth outcome and support the bonding process. Nevertheless, the great technological advances in the obstetric field in the last century have mainly focused on the physical safety and pain relief of the labouring woman, leaving her, the baby and father often with very little emotional support.

Doulas are women specially trained to give emotional and practical support during the pregnancy, labour, birth and postnatal period, leading to more satisfying and empowered experiences, and a decrease in interventions, caesarean sections, postnatal depression and an increase in breastfeeding success. More and more women and couples are choosing to have doula support.

Research has shown that having a doula resent at birth:

• Shortens first- time labour by an average of 2 hours

• Decreases the chance of having a caesarean section by 50%

• Decreases the need for pain medication

• Helps father participate with confidence

• Increases success with breast-feeding

 

The services offered by a doula vary greatly according to the needs of the mother-to-be/parents-to-be. A doula’s role has to be flexible to fit in with the given situation e.g. the type of support will differ for a first time mum to that of a woman who has children already. Every birth is unique and therefore every woman’s experience is also unique.

What can a birth doula do for you?

Through face-to-face discussions, a doula will support you in making a birth plan so that you can make clear decisions about how you would like your labour and delivery to happen, she will show you breathing and relaxation exercises for both parents. It is important for the parent(s) and the doula to meet a few times before the birth to establish a rapport. She will be present during the labour and birth, support the parents during the more intense part of the labour and care for all 3 immediately after the birth. She will come and visit the new family at least once after the birth. It is important to understand three key differences between a midwife and a doula:

- a doula does not have a medical role

- a doula will be there throughout your labour HOWEVER long

- a doula is not associated with a hospital, doctor or midwife and is there for YOU.

What can a postnatal doula do for you ?

She will work for you and your family by the hour. As every situation is different, together you will discuss how she can best help you as a postnatal doula. The sessions will usually last between 2 and 4 hours and can even be in the evenings or on Saturdays. In some cases doulas will also work nights.

When should you contact a doula?

Anytime really. You can contact a doula before being pregnant to discuss the services offered or a few days before your expected delivery…. And anytime in between. For postnatal work, you can of course contact her as soon as you have had the baby (though she may already be booked so it is best to book early). Contracts and appraisal : Before you hire a doula, you will be discussing the service that you need and will be offered. A contract might be signed. Once the doula has completed her assignment she may give you an evaluation form that you may choose to fill-in. She can also offer an evaluation form to the midwife or health visitor (for postnatal work) in order for them to also voice their views on her work.

For more Doula information and advice click here