A Birth Doula is professional labor support.
A Doula…
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Recognizes birth as a key life experience |
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Understands the physiology of birth as well as the
emotional and physical needs of a woman in labor |
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Compliments the role of the woman’s partner and care
providers |
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Encourages the father and other family or
friends to participate at
their own comfort level |
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Assists a woman in preparing and
achieving her plans for birth |
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Stays by the side of the laboring woman |
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Provides information, emotional support,
and physical comfort measures |
Given the range of emotions
present during pregnancy and childbirth, all mothers and
fathers benefit from the
support of an experienced Doula
who can calmly and skillfully help them cope with labor. A
Doula is a constant and reassuring presence for both the
mother and her partner.
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Recent studies indicate that Doulas…
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Decrease cesarean section
rate by 50% |
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Decrease the length of
labor by 25% |
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Decrease the need for
epidurals by 60% |
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Decrease the use of
oxytocin by 40% |
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Decrease postpartum
depression and anxiety levels |
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Mothering the Mother
by Klaus, Kennel, and Klaus
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Postpartum Doulas
In the weeks following the
birth, Postpartum Doulas assist with family adjustment,
newborn care and feeding, and the promotion of parent-infant
bonding. They are experienced in supporting families through
their postpartum period.
Postpartum Doulas offer a range of services that may include…
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Reassuring guidance for
postpartum care of the mother and the newborn |
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Household support, such
as meal preparation, laundry, and errands |
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Help with care of other
children |
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Knowledgeable
breastfeeding support and referrals |
Present North American health care
practices and a lack of cultural rituals leave families
virtually unsupported at this important time in their lives.
There is a great deal of evidence suggesting that quality
support eases the transition that comes with the addition of a
baby to the family. By attending to the needs of the entire family,
and offering quality referral information, a Postpartum Doula enhances the postpartum
experience.
Do you work
with pregnant moms? If so, please feel free to print our
brochures to share with them:
Black & White
Brochure |
Color Brochure
Page last updated: July 9, 2006
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