why do I want a doula?
What are some benefits of having a birth doula?
Research shows that people who are supported by a birth doula are:
less likely to need Pitocin
less likely to have a cesarean birth
have fewer requests for pain medication
improved relaxation
more likely to rate their childbirth experience positively
How can a doula help me during my birth?
Physical Support
Positioning
Words of Affirmation
Informational Support for Informed Decision-Making
Going on errand runs if you or your birth partner need anything - ice, water, extra blankets or towels, etc
What are some benefits of having a postpartum doula?
Studies show that this kind of support can help in the following ways:
help identify symptoms of postpartum mood disorders
improve breastfeeding success
How can a Doula help me after my baby is born?
taking care of the little things - washing bottles and pump parts, washing/ folding laundry, disinfecting commonly touched surfaces, taking out the trash/diaper pail, feeding pets, and more
connecting you with local resources you may want or need such as lactation support, childbirth education, nurse home visitors, mommy support groups, food banks, and more
debriefing your birth - en empathetic ear to talk through your experience, identifying strong or confusing emotions and reflecting on how your birth has impacted and changed your life