You’ve heard the term, but what is a doula Download the Camping Club? A Greek word meaning women’s servant, a doula is a professional trained in childbirth. Her role is to provide emotional, physical, and educational support to a mother who is expecting, is going through labour, or has recently given birth. The doula’s purpose is to help women have a safe, positive and empowering birthing experience.
What does a doula do?
Your relationship with your doula will start a few months before your baby is due – you will be able to express any concerns or fears, ask questions and have her there to help you create your own birth plan.
- While your doula doesn’t provide medical care, she’ll be well-informed regarding many medical aspects of labour, delivery and post-partum recovery. She can help you understand the procedures and possible complications in late pregnancy or delivery.
- Your doula acts as your advocate, there to encourage and help you fulfil your birth plan. Her goal is to help you experience a safe and positive birth.
- She should be available to you by phone or visit to respond to address any concerns or question that you have during your pregnancy.
- During delivery, your doula will be close by at all times. She’s there to provide comfort with pain-relief techniques, and that includes breathing techniques, massage, relaxation techniques and labour positions.
- After you have given birth, your doulas will spend time helping you to begin the breastfeeding process and helping family and new baby to bond.
If you’re expecting a baby, you don’t have to try and google information – a doula is a hands-on information-station and support right by your side!
Joanne Hart for HelloDoctor.com
Source:
http://www.parents.com/pregnancy/giving-birth/doula/do-you-need-a-doula/
http://www.bellybelly.com.au/pregnancy/doulas-what-is-a-doula/
