One of the most profound miracles is taking place inside of you. With every kick, squirm, and wiggle you are falling more in love with someone you haven't even met. Worries and excitement begin to take hold as you begin to unravel the mysteries of motherhood. How can anyone prepare for such a journey as this?
Books are read and videos watched, yet there are still unanswered questions and fears. Wouldn't it be a blessing to have someone experienced...someone unwilling to share frightful birth stories, but instead uplift, encourage, and empower you to make your birth a wonderful experience? If you want to be informed and proactive in your birth decisions, consider hiring a doula!
A doula is a person experienced in childbirth that gives informational, emotional, and physical support to a woman and her family before, during, and after birth. Studies show that having a doula present for your birth :
- Reduces your chance of c-section by 50%
- Reduces your length of labor by 25%
- Reduces the use of Oxytocin by 40%
- Reduces the need for pain medication by 30%
- Reduces the request for epidural by 60%
- Reduces your chance of a forcep/vacuum assist by 40%
Studies have also linked doula care with improved success with Breastfeeding and a decrease in Postpartum Depression.
Hodnett, E.D., and Osborn, R. "Effect of Continuous Intrapartum Professional Support on Childbirth Outcomes." Research in Nursing & Health 12(1989):289-297.
Kierse, M.J.; Enkin, M.; Lumley, J. "Social and Professional Support during Labor." In Effective Care in Pregnancy and Childbirth, vol. 2, edited by I. Chalmers, M. Enkin, and M.J.N.C. Kierse. New York: Oxford University Press, 1989:805-814.
Klaus, M.H.; Kennel, J.H.; Klaus, P.H. MOTHERING THE MOTHER. New York: Addison-Wesley Publishing Company, 1993.