Doulas are women specially trained to give emotional and practical support during pregnancy, labour, birth and the postnatal period – leading to more satisfying and empowered experiences, and a decrease in interventions, caesarean sections, postnatal depression and an increase in breastfeeding success.
Doulas do what is needed. Doulas can support couples, a mum who is alone, or a mum who has other children that her partner needs to take care of. Alternatively they can do the little things that mean a partner can support the woman in labour such as filling the birth pool, dimming the lights, putting music on and even making tea for the midwives! Or anything in between!
Research has shown that having a doula present at a birth:
* Shortens first-time labour by an average of 2 hours
* Decreases the chance of caesarean section by 50%
* Decreases the need for pain medication
* Helps fathers participate with confidence
* Increases success in breast-feeding
(Findings taken from “Mothering the Mother” by Klaus, Kennell & Klaus, 1993)
Thanks to Sam from Doula Need A Helping Hand for this poll
http://doulaneedahelpinghand.webs.com/
Recent Comments