Dynamic Duo: The Power of having a Doula on your Birth Team
So, you've just learned that you are expecting a beautiful addition to your family. Congratulations! This news must bring you much excitement and maybe even a little bit of nervousness too. Questions may have begun to float through your mind, such as, "What will my baby look like?" or "What type of birth should I have?" However, there’s no need to fear—you have a doula right here! Doulas are non-medical professionals who offer women and their families emotional, physical, and educational support throughout pregnancy, labor, and postpartum. With your willingness to receive care and their passion to serve, you and a doula will be a dynamic duo!
Doulas can join your birth team as early as preconception or as late as postpartum. A consultation is the first step to discuss the ways you need support in this current season. From there, a personalized care plan will be created to ensure you are equipped with the tools needed to achieve a more positive pregnancy and postpartum experience. Wholly Miss Holistic Wellness offers a variety of care packages, including birth, postpartum, and health coaching services. The number one goal of each service is to ensure that every woman feels supported throughout her pregnancy journey.
From day one of working with a doula, you and your family will have a safe space to process your emotions. Doulas actively listen to you as you share your experiences. Many people express how reassuring it is to receive unbiased and affirming feedback from their doula.
Have you ever felt overwhelmed by all the information the internet has to offer? Don’t worry! Doulas will help guide you through evidence-based content regarding pregnancy, labor, and postpartum so you can make decisions that are best for you.
Once you receive information regarding your areas of interest or concerns, you’ll feel confident enough to make decisions about your birth plan. For example, you may decide you want to have free mobility throughout labor while in the hospital. A doula will teach you how to clearly communicate your desires to your medical team. Together, we will work to create a plan that is in your best interest.
It’s no secret that pregnancy, labor, and postpartum come with their own physical challenges. However, doulas demonstrate various comfort measures that can assist with pain management. These hands-on techniques are practiced prior to labor so that you can identify which ones work best for you.
Speaking of labor, did you know that doulas remain with you throughout your entire labor? Yes, girl! This continuous support is vital because you’ll have someone by your side even when your nurse or doctor isn't available or while your family is taking a break. "Women who receive continuous support during labor are 26% less likely to have a cesarean section, 41% less likely to use synthetic oxytocin (Pitocin) for labor induction or augmentation, and report higher satisfaction with their birth experience" (Hodnett et al., 2013).
Not all heroes wear capes. With that being said, you are the biggest superhero of them all! Your strength and determination to embark on this pregnancy journey is admirable. Furthermore, your birth team is here to act as your sidekicks. From your partner and family to your medical professionals, we are all dedicated to serving you at this time. More specifically, your doula will provide you with the tools needed for emotional, physical, and educational support.
Allow a doula to empower you today! Let’s create a dynamic duo!
