Create a birth plan together with a qualified doula and have the pros and cons of different interventions explained. With the option to explore different birthing options in a hands-on and informative way.
While creating a birth plan together with a qualified doula, further resources are shared so that you and your partner can have the evidence-based information you need to determine what your preferences are.
Many women today choose to have a doula present with them when they give birth. Here are some of the reasons why.
1. They inform you.
Having the right information about pregnancy and birth ensures you are empowered to make informed decisions for your pregnancy and birth. Prenatally, a doula will spend time with you to fill any gaps in your knowledge. They will ensure you have the information necessary to navigate birth and all the many decisions that come with.
2. They put your mind at ease.
Many times, all a woman needs during labour is to hear that what is happening is normal and that she is doing a great job. That can be enough to get the mother-to-be through the next contraction and on to a happy delivery.
3. Focused on you.
All their attention is on helping you achieve an empowering experience. Anyone will perform better at a task with the right encouragement and support. Doulas are trained specifically in how to make you the most comfortable and how to help you have the most positive birth experience possible. Their focus will be entirely on you and helping any other birth partners support you effectively.
4. The evidence of effectiveness.
The evidence behind having a doula present during labour and birth supports all the following claims :
- Decrease in the risk of Caesarean Section (C-Section)
- Increase in the likelihood of a spontaneous vaginal birth
- Decrease in the use of any medications for pain relief
- Decrease in the baby’s risk of a low five minute Apgar score
- Decrease in the risk of being dissatisfied with the birth experience
- Shorter labours by 41 minutes on average