WHAT IS A DOULA?
A doula is a trained professional who provides continuous physical, emotional and informational support to the mother before, during and just after birth. WHY HIRE A DOULA? At the hospital, laboring families aren't truly supported during childbirth unless they have a doula present. Care providers are quite busy and frequently enter/exit your room leaving you unattended while they are busy with other patients. Doulas stay with you and provide help when you need it most! In labor, doulas visit your home and help you figure out when to go to the hospital. During pregnancy, doulas help you choose a care provider and/or hospital based on your specific needs, and we help you define your ideal labor and birth plan. Studies indicate that when a Doula is present, labours tend to be shorter with less need for technical aid, and there is greater maternal satisfaction. Doulas help foster a more relaxed postpartum environment as well, and enhance early mother-infant relationships, breastfeeding and family adjustments. WHAT ARE THE PROVEN BENEFITS OF A DOULA? A recent review of many studies from around the world have concluded that a doula’s support is more effective than hospital staff, friends or family. You can read the review here. Studies (and reviews of the studies) consistently demonstrate very impressive benefits for the mother, father and baby, including:
Source: "Doula - What Is a Doula and Why So Many Women Want One?" by Kelly Winder WHAT DO DOULAS DO? Doulas “mother the mother.” While performing her role, a doula:
WHAT DOULAS DO NOT DO:
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