My partner is there to support me, why do I need a doula?

Some say “It takes a village to raise a child,” I say it takes a village to birth one! Doctors, nurses, doulas, dads, even grandmas all have a special role during the birth. The doula is not there to replace anyone, especially the birth partner (in most cases, the father).

DONA says it best in their article “Dads and Doulas - Key Players on Mother’s Labor Support Team":

“At times a father may not understand a woman’s instinctive behavior during childbirth and may react anxiously to what a birth doula knows to be the normal process of birth. He may witness a partner in pain and understandably be distressed.”

“With a doula, a father can share in the birth at a level he feels most comfortable with. The doula’s skills and knowledge can help him to feel more relaxed. If the father want’s to provide physical comfort such as back massage, change of positions, and help his partner to stay focused during contractions, the doula can provide that guidance and make suggestions for what may work best.”

I would also like to add, supporting a mother throughout labor isn’t easy. Doing the “double hip squeeze” on a mom for five hours because it’s the only thing that relieves her back pain is exhausting. The dad and the doula are a team, working together to support the mother.

What good is a doula if I’m planning on having an epidural?

It’s true that a doula’s main role is to help the laboring mother cope with her pain. However, when a woman decides to have an epidural her role does not become obsolete, it simply changes a bit. Here are just a few ways a doula helps a mom who has chosen an epidural:

Many doctors prefer a mom to be dilated 4-5 centimeters before receiving an epidural. A doula will help the mother cope until that time, while offering different positions and options to help the mother dilate more quickly.

She provides information, reassurance and emotional support throughout the entire labor, remaining focused on the needs of the mother. Many mother’s have said they felt isolated after receiving the epidural, as if people forgot they were even having a baby.

Having an epidural can make it much more difficult for the mom to push appropriately during the second stage of labor. A doula can help the mother get into more effective positions for pushing, that may also help reduce the need for episiotomy and cesarean section.

After the delivery the doula is there to provide assistance with breastfeeding.

How early should I contact my doula when I think I’m in labor?

As soon as possible. You may not need your doula to come right away, but this lets her know that she will be needed soon. Since your doula is on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, this gives her the opportunity to get prepared, so she can respond quickly when you decide it’s time for her to come.

My baby is breech. Is there anything I can do to avoid a cesarean section?

Most doctors will not vaginally deliver a baby who is in breech position, especially with a first-time mom. There are many non-invasive techniques you can do on your own to help encourage your baby to turn. Contact your doula for different options and proper techniques.