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How To Help Mothers Before and During Birth
The first time a woman
is pregnant is a time of anticipation, excitement, fear
and sometimes, sorrow. It is a maze of emotions that
can be unexpected and overwhelming. Most mothers can
be confident in the chances of having a healthy and
safe pregnancy and labor, but despite the marvels of
medical technology there is an emotional component that
is missing from the care of a pregnant woman and her
needs before and during labor.
Doulas offer a service to provide this
essential care for women; women who may not have close
friends or family that can answer their questions or
be the emotional support they need.
What is a Doula?
The word 'doula' comes from a Greek
term referring to the highest ranking female slave in
a household. It is quite likely that this woman helped
the lady with her birth and helped care for the woman
and her new baby.
Today, a doula helps to inform a woman
about the birthing process as well as stay by her side
and support her during the birth and when she comes
home.
What Can a Doula Do?
A doula is usually not a medically trained
individual. Her role in the birthing process is to physically
and emotionally assist the mother in a nurturing role
rather than a medical one.
Doulas recognize the importance of the
birthing experience on a woman's life and memory. The
doula's support and comfort are focused on easing the
emotional anxieties associated with labor and birth.
Her knowledge of the birthing process will enable her
to educate the parents as well as anticipate the needs
of the woman when she is in labor.
The doula will also assist the father
in his role in the birth, offering guidance for helping
the laboring mother. She will help the partner to learn
techniques that will soothe the mother, like massage
or counter pressure. She will also help them create
a birthing plan and facilitate communications with the
medical staff regarding it.
How Do I Find a Doula? Do I Need One?
A doula is only one part of a woman's
childbirth team. A woman may have a supportive partner
and still feel she'd like the additional assistance
of a doula. Understanding her role is a supportive one
may ease the anxiety of both the mother and the partner.
You can find information about doulas
from your hospital, childbirth educator or local support
group, like Le Leche League. The price will vary depending
on the doula's experience and local rates. Ask for recommendations
from other mothers and interview several until you find
a good match.
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