Birth is transformational. Not only are babies born at the moment of birth, but also mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers and grandparents — it’s a time to be revered, celebrated and skillfully handled. In response to this, more women and their partners are preparing for it by having the support of a doula.
Why? Doulas are great for moms, their babies and partners before, during and long after the baby is born. Women who have doulas present tend to have shorter labors with fewer complications, interventions and cesarean surgeries, and they experience less postpartum depression. Also, babies born with doulas present tend to have better outcomes (see www.dona.org for a complete list of studies).
How do they have this magical touch? A doula’s role is to support both parents in having a positive birth experience. If you hire a doula you can expect to get to know her prenatally during at least a couple of visits (often in your home). She’ll get to know your wishes and help you create a birth plan. As labor begins, she can join you at home to help you labor there, and then help in transferring you to the hospital when the time is right. And, people choosing a home birth often have the emotional support of a doula in addition to their midwife.
Labor, as exciting as it is, can be truly overwhelming. The partner, while anxious to provide loving support, can feel utterly lost. The doula is there to smooth the path and show how to best offer support through verbal encouragement and physical comfort measures (such as breathing, relaxation, movement, massage and positioning). A doula also provides informational assistance in order to best navigate the many changes and choices that often arise during the course of labor.
Your doula sticks with you until the end. While your doctor or midwife and nurses come and go, busily meeting the needs of many laboring women, your doula is a constant presence. She is vigilant in getting you and your partner’s emotional needs met. Of all your caregivers, your doula may be the one that best understands your dreams for the birth of your baby and she is there to advocate for you, no matter what kind of birth you hope to have. Finally, you’ll see your doula a couple of times postpartum in your home.
Doulas are trained and certified through numerous organizations around the country Google DONA, CAPPA or ALACE to find out more. You can find a doula in Southern Maine through the websites of these organizations or by contacting Birth Roots at 77-BIRTH. Generally, doulas cost between $400-$800, or they may be free if they are in training (Birth Roots has a list of doulas in training). Each doula offers a unique package of care, so contact several to find just the right match for you.
The transition into motherhood can be one of the most profound events a woman experiences. Hiring a doula can make it that much more special.
Stephanie Cooke is a doula serving the Southern Maine region. More information can be found at www.stephaniecooke.com.