Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is a Labor Assistant or doula?
In short, a Labor Assistant or doula is a woman experienced in childbirth who offers continuous one-on-one care for the birthing woman and her partner. She provides information about the childbirth process, available technology, and alternatives. She trusts the process of birth and facilitates the birth experience for parents, baby, and primary care provider.
2. Why should I hire one?
Recent studies have shown that the presence of a skilled Labor Assistant results in:
~shorter labors
~reduced need for pain medication
~fewer episiotomies
~fewer cesarean births
~improved neo-natal outcomes
~improved mother-infant interaction
~greater maternal satisfaction
3. What exactly will you do for me while I'm in labor?
I am trained and skilled in various comfort techniques for labor and delivery. I use hands-on comfort measures, emotional support, variations in positions, and suggestions to improve labor patterns. I teach partners how to provide these same skill sets, as well. Prenatally, I provide each client with education and information on the birth process and the risks and benefits of medical interventions. I strive to equip my clients with the information they need and deserve in order to make informed choices about their own care.
4. Will you deliver my baby?
No. I provide NO clinical services at all. Your primary care provider (OB/FP/MW) is responsible for managing the clinical aspects of your care. I perfom NO cervical dilation checks, fetal heart rate assessments, or BP checks. As your Labor Assistant, I am knowledgeable in regards to these procedures and can help you understand their meaning in your labor. I will not, however, perform them in any scenario.
5. Will a Labor Assistant replace my partner's role?
No way! No one is more beneficial to you than a loving partner. While some partners are eager to jump in and learn all about labor support, some need a little time, reassurance, and education to feel more at ease. I am eager to teach your partner easy comfort techniques so that the two of you might share the experience. Hired labor support actually enhances the partner's experience by taking the pressure off this person to perform. Here is a good article on the subject.
6. Will you come to my home while I am in early labor?
Absolutely! I will come to you as soon as you need me. I can provide early labor relaxation techniques and comfort measures until you are ready to make the transistion to your birthplace. I do not perform clinical tasks such as cervical checks or fetal heart rate assessments.
7. Will you stay by my side while I'm in the hospital?
Yes. I remain with you throughout the entirety of your labor and delivery. I stay until mother and baby are resting in the postpartum room.
8. Does this mean I can't have an epidural? Although many women seeking doula services would like to avoid common interventions in labor, including an epidural, each woman is encouraged to make her own choices in labor regarding pain relief. My services are designed around your specific birth expectations, irrelevant of your desire for pain relief.
