The
Wonders of Doula Care
Wha is a Doula? A doula is a woman specifically
trained to provide physical, emotional and educational support
to a woman and her partner during labor. She works with the
birth team to ensure that birth wishes are met and questions
are answered. A doula helps to maintain a safe and comfortable
birthing environment.
How
does a doula help labor?
-
A
doula understands the natural procress of labor.
-
She
can suggest position changes to ease discomfort and help
labor progress.
-
She uses massage, imagery, hot and cold treatments and
words of encoragement.
-
She is a constant companion and dedicated to the mother's
well-being
Doulas
have been around for centuries, but only recenlty have become
popular again. In fact, in a recent online survey, 55% of
women said they planned to use a doula during their birth!
People are choosing to have doulas as part of their birth
team because they make a difference!
A
doula's presence at birth:
-
Tends to result in shorter labors with fewer complications
-
Reduces
negative feelings about one's childbirth experience
-
Reduces
the need for pitocin, delivery tools and cesareans
-
Reduces
the mother's request for pain medication and/or epidural
More info:
www.dona.org
www.icea.org
Recommended Reading:
The Doula Book by Kennell, Klaus & Klaus
The Birth Partner by Simkin
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