Professional Labor Support
Many couples interested in Natural Childbirth find having the assistance of a doula (also known as a professional labor assistant) extremely valuable. I found the support and knowledge of a doula to be a critical piece in my ability to have a natural childbirth. The wisdom and knowledge of our doula proved invaluable during all 3 of our natural births here in Richmond. As a labor assistant myself, I understand how a doula's presence and guidance can transform any labor and make it a fulfilling positive experience. Both my husband, Craig, and I are passionate about the benefits of having a doula. Please let me know if you are interested in labor support. I am happy to assist you in finding the right doula for your needs.
The following questions address the topic of doulas, expanded answers can also be found on the ALACE website.
What is a doula?
A labor assistant/birth doula provides continuous care for the laboring woman and her partner, and helps them fully experience their birth by offering physical and emotional support.
Why should I use a doula?
Studies show that the presence of a doula results in shorter labor, a reduced need for pain medication, a reduction in Cesarean births, and improved outcomes for both mother and baby
What is the difference between a doula and a midwife?
Midwives are primary caregivers who make clinical decisions and give medical advice. Doulas are not the primary caregivers for their clients; and, unlike midwives or doctors, doulas are neither medically trained nor responsible for the medical wellbeing of mothers or babies.
What’s the difference between a doula and a labor assistant?
The words are interchangeable; a birth doula and a labor assistant both provide the same services: providing informational, emotional, and physical support to a woman and her partner during labor and birth. There are also postpartum doulas that provide emotional and physical support in the client’s home after the birth; they may help with light housekeeping, cooking, babysitting older siblings, and breastfeeding support.
If I have a midwife or am having my baby at home, why should I need a doula?
There are two reasons why it is a good idea to have a doula even when using a midwife.
While a midwife may provide the same support of that of a doula, she may not in fact include that aspect of care in her services.
Secondly, a midwife’s primary responsibility is of a clinical nature (taking blood pressure, vaginal exams, listening to the baby’s heartbeat, “catching” the baby and the placenta, repairing any tears etc). Even though you may need support during these times, the clinical tasks will take precedence over directly supporting you. Consequently it can help to have a designated person solely focused on your ongoing physical and emotional needs, regardless of what the midwife is doing.
If my husband or partner is there with me, why should I use a doula?
While your husband or partner may be the most intimate and important person to you during labor, he/she may not have the knowledge, stamina, and skills that are useful during labor and birth. It also may be difficult for him/her to watch his loved one experience the normal pain of childbirth. While the doula can provide all of the support herself if needed, she is also trained to help your partner or family know how to help you. Often the doula and your partner work together to provide the continuous support you will need. The doula never takes the place of the partner, but supplements his/her attention and care with her knowledge and experience.
I’m planning to give birth in a hospital; why should I use a doula?
Many of us are intimidated in medical institutions, especially when we are the patient in that institution. In addition to the continuous physical and emotional support provided by your doula, she can also help you understand what the nurses, doctors and midwives are talking about. She can remind and support you in asking questions and stating your concerns or your preferences. Your doula is a knowledgeable lay person who can understand the medical system, as well as stay focused on you and your needs throughout your labor.
I’m planning to have an epidural; why should I use a doula?
A doula’s support is not only focused on managing pain during childbirth. She is your advocate throughout your labor and birth helping you and your family with any questions or concerns that may arise, helping you understand what your care providers are saying, and attending to your comfort and needs. Pain medication and/or anesthesia don’t always arrive at the exact moment you are ready for it. You may benefit from having a doula support you during contractions until you get the relief you are planning on receiving. Once you have received anesthesia, although you may not be feeling the intensity of the contractions, you are still having a baby. Your doula will remain with you throughout the birth, as well as the immediate postpartum period to support you and ensure that your and your family’s needs are being met.
I’m planning to have a C-Section; why should I use a doula?
Having a cesarean section is having a baby. Your doula is your support and advocate throughout the preparation for surgery, and depending on hospital policies, she may be able to support you in the operating room as well. She will be at your side in the recovery room and can help you and your family with any questions or concerns that may arise, helping you understand what your care providers are saying, and attending to your comfort and needs.
