Labor Doula Support

A. What is a labor doula

By definition a doula is a person that is trained to advise, inform and offer emotional and physical support to a mother before, during and after the birth of her little one, the word comes from the Greek word doule which literally translates to female helper or maid servant, but we are so much more than that, not only do we offer support to the birthing person, but to their partner as well, so that both may go into this life change EMPOWERED and comfortable in the decisions they make for their family.

B. What type of support can a doula provide during pregnancy, labor, & birth

a doula may offer:

• Attention to physical comfort through techniques such as touch and massage and assistance with breathing

• Emotional reassurance, comfort and encouragement

• Information about what's happening during labor and the postpartum period, including explanations of procedures

• Help with facilitating communication between you and the hospital staff

• Guidance and support for loved ones

• Assistance with breast-feeding

often our most important role is providing continuous support during labor and deliver of your little one and research has shown a decrease in the use of pain medication, inductions of caesarians, length of labor and negative birth experiences.

C. When to hire a labor doula

Some have asked when is the best time to hire a doula, and the best question is the sooner the better, as then it gives us time to get to know each other and your birth partner, what your views and hopes are for your birth and post partum period and how best to help and advocate for you, build a good working relationship of respect and trust.

Can you hire for just your birthing and postpartum if you have had a prior pregnancy? ABSOLUTLY!!, is this your first and you want someone with training and experience you can talk to during your pregnancy? I CAN DO THAT!!

There is really no wrong time, Our training and experience is well worth your peace of mind. You are investing in your peace of mind.

D. Questions to consider when hiring a doula

• ask about their training

• how many births they have attended

• their philosophies about childbirth

• what services they provide

• cost

• your preferences and concerns about pregnancy, labor and delivery

here is also a link of great questions you can also ask your potential doula:

https://www.prodoula.com/top-10-questions-to-ask-a-doula/ )