Benefits of Having a Trained Doula for your birth Journey:
A Doulas primary and unique role is to encourage the birthing woman's self-confidence. Whilst every member of the birthing team play an integral role in assisting the woman to birth her baby, the Doula is there to be the mother's constant companion and is comfortable and confident with the birthing process which is not only valuable for the birthing woman, it is very beneficial for the woman's partner or even her chosen friend or relative who may also be present. A Doula can help a mother find positions that are most comfortable and effective, protect her privacy and create an atmosphere to prevent distractions, pressure or fears during the process and natural rhythm of each woman's own labour experience. According to research undertaken in the US, Klaus, Kennel and Klaus, authors of Mothering the Mother, "How a Doula Can Help You Have a Shorter, Easier and Healthier Birth" have identified the benefits of having a doula at your birth:
50% reduction in caesarean rate
25% shorter labour
60% reduction in epidural requests
40% reduction in oxytocin use
30% reduction in analgesia use
40% reduction in forceps delivery
Improved breastfeeding
Decreased incidence of postpartum depression
Greater maternal satisfaction
Better mother-infant interaction
By hiring a doula a mother ensures:
>She has a skilled set of hands 'holding the space for her at home and/or in hospital'
>She is surrounded by nurturing and caring energy
>She has a reduced risk of unnecessary interventions
In the words from the video, Giving Birth: Challenges and Choices, by Suzanne Arms, "If a doula were a drug, it would be unethical not to use it."
