Virginia Beach based black birth doula supporting healthy beginnings!
What is a doula?
A doula is a trained birth professional that provides physical, emotional, and informational support to a birth person and their partner during the pregnancy, birth and postpartum period. Although a doula is a birth professional, they are unlike clinical providers such as a midwife, nurse, or OB as a doula has no medical training and will not treat or diagnose. The one and only priority is for her to be available to you and focus on your emotional and mental comfort. Your doula will meet with you a few times prior to birth to establish and stay up to date with birth preferences, are typically available through phone or email to answer any questions or provide support for concerns. Following the birth your doula will remain to allow for a smooth transition, she will also reconnect a few times after birth to aid with lactation and newborn care.
A full spectrum doula can support in any period of the birth journey, however some choose to specialize. There are different types of doulas; birth doulas, postpartum doulas, antepartum doulas, and bereavement doulas.
How does a doula improve the birth experience?
What we know based on recent studies is that a doula enhances so many aspects of the birth experience. There is less time spent in labor, a reduction in anxiety and stress, and lower rates of medical interventions. Mother-baby bonding post-birth is improved as well as higher rates of successfully initiating breastfeeding. Most significantly, mothers supported by doulas report greater satisfaction with their birth experience.
Will my partner still have a role?
Absolutely! Having a doula does not replace your birth partner, they complement and enhance the birth experience for both people. During labor it may be difficult or overwhelming for your partner to recall information from a birth lesson, understand what is happening in labor, or know what options are available in different scenarios. Your doula can support and guide your partner to apply counter pressure and use affirmations. Partners can get overwhelmed seeing the person they love endure something so hard, your doula will reassure him that everything is okay and normal as you give birth so he can be confident and comfortable. Your partner can also get a break from supporting to take a call or eat and you won't be alone during labor. From the meetings prior to labor, your doula can help conquer fears and anxieties you or your partner may be struggling with.
What if I decide on an epidural or c-section?
Pain management is one of many aspects of a doula's role. She will remain with you before, during, and after the epidural is placed. Your doula is still available to support with information, labor and pushing positions, and tending to your other comforts like ice, water, a diffuser, music or anything else you may need.
In the case of a planned c-section your doula will be present to support you before and after surgery, assist in recovery, and breastfeeding just like a vaginal birth. In an emergency situation your doula can help you and your partner process the emotions of a change in birth plan and stay informed about what is happening especially if you are separated from the baby for any reason she will remain with you while you partner is with baby. Your doula will also advocate to get your baby placed back with you as soon as possible with as little separation as possible.
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