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Professional Labor Support
Childbirth Classes
Postpartum Care
Reading & Resources
Doulas & Partners
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My role as your Doula is to help you and your
partner navigate through the complex emotions, and sometimes
confusing information you will encounter during labor and
birth. I provide non-clinical care which includes
advice on different types of physical comfort techniques
such as breathing, relaxation, movement and positioning,
hands-on comfort techniques such as massage, verbal reassurance
and encouragement, and informational support which enables
you to achieve your goals for a safe and satisfying
birth experience.
In today’s hospital settings birth has become very
hi-tech. The doctors and nurses are well trained
in assessing the medical needs of the laboring woman, but
her psychosocial needs may take a back seat.
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I help ensure that these
needs are met while enhancing communication and understanding
between the laboring couple and the staff. I also provide
the continuous physical and emotional support that may not
be available from the medical staff, or family. I am the voice
that calms, soothes, and reassures the woman and her partner
that birth is a normal function of her body, will help her
to understand what is happening and to not be afraid.
I will encourage you to ask questions of your care provider
if you are unclear or concerned so you can make informed decisions.
A Doula rubs backs – partners included – fetches
anything needed by the woman, holds legs, gives instruction,
answers questions, sings, prays, or even sits quietly and watches – whatever
the woman needs to create a supportive, nurturing and safe
environment.
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Women cared for during labor by a birth doula,
compared to those receiving usual care were:
- 26% less likely to give birth by Cesarean Section
- 41% less likely to give birth with a vacuum extractor
or forceps
- 28% less likely to ask for analgesia or anesthesia
- 33% less likely to be dissatisfied with their birth experience
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Doulas are not doctors or midwives, and do not practice medicine,
nor diagnose and treat pregnancy or postpartum related
symptoms. Information presented in our meetings and
conversations is not intended as a substitute for the medical
advice of a properly licensed health care professional. In
addition, Doulas do not make specific health claims or
promise medical results. We provide education and guidance,
pregnancy, labor, postpartum, and breastfeeding support
*DONA - Birth Doula Position Paper |
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