A doula is a trained professional in childbirth. She provides continuous support to a mother before, during and just after birth. The word doula comes from the Greek meaning “a woman who serves”, or “handmaiden”.
Doula care is different from the medical care received from doctors or nurse midwives and can occur in your home or in an office and later at your birthing center. Prior to the birth, doulas offer support and encouragement, as well as, education to the parents to be. Parents are able to form opinions and make decisions on what they want during labor. Knowledge eases anxiety and increases satisfaction of the birthing process. Doula support is emotional and practical. Most relationships between doulas and families become very close and personal over the course of pregnancy.
Doulas support partners and the mother! Some partners have never witnessed a birth and desire to assist the mother. A doula will give suggestions on how a partner can best support mom during labor. For example: the doula may take care of various and sundry tasks, allowing partner the ability to stay at mom’s side. Additionally, the doula can give partner a break while she stays with mom for continuous support. Doulas are super during active labor, promoting calmness, direction and reassurance, especially during transition and pushing.
Insurance changes resulting from the Affordable Care Act means some insurance plans may now cover some doula costs. Please check with your health plan to explore this option.
Following birth, a doula lends a hand where she is needed. She can assist mom with breastfeeding during The Loving Hour (skin to skin time immediately after delivery). Your doula may also provide books and resources new parents may need. With the reinforcement of a doula, statistics show higher rates of breastfeeding initiation. In a 2009 study, the mothers who had doulas were more than twice as likely to still be breastfeeding at 6 weeks.
Please share your insight and ask Lovelacelaboroflove@lovelace.com your pregnancy support questions and about doula options.
This blog was written by Catherine Roth, Community Health Education B.S., Community Health Worker, Labor of Love, and Darlene Lundquist, RN, Community Health Worker, Labor of Love.