7 Ways Doulas Can Help You Have a Better Birth | Erie PA Doula
Doulas are increasing in popularity in our area… so, what’s the big deal? Doulas (birth coaches) have been around since the beginning of time, but the term was first used in 1969.
Inspired by World Doula Week, allow me to share with you the ways a doula can help you have a better labor and delivery.
1. Doulas are a form of pain relief.
Doulas help you feel as comfortable as possible during your birth experience. From hip squeezes to counter-pressure to massage, we provide the physical support that helps you feel at ease as you work through each contraction.
We make sure you stay hydrated, hold a cool cloth on your forehead when things heat up, and keep you comfy with pillows and position changes.
2. Doulas pay attention to detail.
We notice when you're holding tension in your face or when you're clenching your fists. We remind you to use the restroom and we put your water bottle up to your lips in between contractions. We make sure your environment is as calm as possible by dimming the lights and playing your favorite music.
We sense when you're feeling anxious or scared and help you work through those very real emotions.
We know when to speak to you in a gentle voice and when you need more of an upbeat, "let's do this" attitude. We know that certain times call for silence and other times call for verbal encouragement (and how to know the difference).
3. Doulas validate your feelings.
Doulas are experts at helping parents dig deep. Deeper bonds with your partner, deeper connections with your care providers, deeper understanding of the birth and postpartum process.
Doulas acknowledge your past experiences that have shaped you into the person you are today. We hold space for you to express all emotions, whenever you feel the need to. Facing your feelings head on during your pregnancy and birth, will help you tremendously.
Empathy is the only way we can beat shame and allow for vulnerability. You can count on your doula to never judge your feelings or your choices.
4. Doulas respect your decisions.
You know your family... we know birth & early parenting. With a doula's unwavering nonjudgmental support and your unique preferences, an amazing team is "born!"
Everyone feels more confident when they are well supported. You're in the driver's seat when you have a doula. We are the experts in options and we present them to you for you to make your own individual choices.
We take the time to listen. You don't have to worry about your doula offering unsolicited advice or questioning the decisions you make along the way. Doulas have your back!
5. Doulas show up for you.
Accessible. Reliable. Committed.
These are all words that come to mind when I think of what makes doula support so valuable. There are enough unknowns when it comes to birth and parenting without having to gamble on whether or not you will have support along the way.
We welcome those 2:00 AM wake-up calls when you're questioning if your water has broken or if it's time to head to your birth location. We understand that support is necessary around the clock and at a moment's notice... not just during the typical "9-5" business hours.
Pregnancy and birth come with a roller coaster of emotions. We are the people you can trust to share those intense feelings with.
You can always count on your doula!
6. Doulas increase your satisfaction in your birth experience.
Did you know numerous studies have documented the benefits of having a doula present during labor?
A 2017 Cochrane Review, (Continuous Support for Women During Childbirth) showed that with doula support, birthing people consistently report having a more positive and satisfying childbirth experience.
We know that what sticks with parents most, is not the outcome of their birth (whether vaginal, cesarean, interventions, or no interventions), but how they felt they were treating during the experience.
Birthing people have a right to feel like the driver and not the vehicle during the birthing process. Feeling like you have options and some control or choices, helps lessen fear and increases overall satisfaction.
7. Doulas help get your partner involved.
We encourage partner participation and offer them reassurance during the labor process.
Having a doula takes some of the pressure of your partner so they can enjoy the experience, instead of trying to remember all those comfort techniques from childbirth education class alone. Also, having an extra person to emotionally reassure the birthing person is extremely helpful.
Doulas have witnessed and participated in numerous births and therefore know what to expect. We are the "calm in the storm" when things feel overwhelming, intimidating, or downright scary. Not only do we aim to keep the birthing person comfortable and relaxed, but also the partner!