THE FACTS

What is a Doula?

A doula is a professional, trained in childbirth, who provides physical, emotional and informational support. A birth coach so to speak. Someone who knows the ins and outs of typical hospital policies, birth options, coping skills, optimal positioning for labor, as well as being up to date on current birthing decisions and the evidence or lack of evidence behind them.

What are your plans for infant bonding, transitioning family dynamics, bottle/breast feeding, routine infant care, delayed vs typical cord clamping and bathing...

A doula supports your plans and gives you the evidence based information you request aboout the things you are on the fence about so you can make informed decisions for yourself. A doula also helps prepare you for the plot twists of pregnancy, delivery, and post partum.

A doula gives continuous support. There are no shift changes and no other patients needing care in other rooms. According to one study (Barnett et al. 2008) nurses on average spend just 12% of each persons labor providing emotional, physical, or informational support?

A doula can reasure you, help you articulate questions for your care providers, and share skills that will help you be heard and active in your care.

Studies prove women who have doulas...

Have decreased risk of Cesarean

Are less likely to use pain medication

Are more likely to be satisfied with their birth experience

Less anxiety and lower pain levels

Less likey to experience post partum depression

Are less likely to a have vacuum or forcep-assisted birth

Have shorter labors