What is a Doula?
A doula is someone who provides non-medical support and care to a woman (and her partner) during childbirth.
Before and during childbirth, women have many needs. Working with a doula during this beautiful time will add confidence, and reassurance to the birth, woman, and her partner.
A doula teams with a woman and her family, physicians, midwives and nurses with the goal of promoting a safe and caring environment.
When a doula is available, the pressure of being sole support is taken off the partner, allowing a more realaxed birth experience for all involved. Having a knowledgeable doula along to answer questions regarding the labour and birth will contribute to the confidence of both woman and family.
*The doula must abide by a Code of Ethics and Standards and Scope of Practice.
Numerous studies have shown that the presence of a doula at a birth results in:
- 50% reduction in cesarean rates*
- 40% reduction in forcep deliveries*
- 25% shorter labours*
- 60% reduction in epidural requests*
- 40% reduction in oxytocin (Pitocin) use*
- better mother-infant bonding*
- 30% reduction in analgesia use*
- reduced post-partum depression*
*(Mothering the Mother: How a Doula Can Help You Have a Shorter, Easier, and Healthier Birth), Klaus, Kennell, and Klaus
A doula will never replace the bond that mother and partner have, the goal is to bring you closer together. With the support from a loving partner and doula the birthing experience is known to be much more satisfying for everyone.
Why am I a Doula?
I am a doula because I found such profound joy in the giving of life, and realize that these are the best memories any mother (father) could ever have. I have had wonderful birth experiences due to the great support I had, I also realize that with a little more help these memories could be even better. I am looking forward to helping you create some of the best memories possible!
