The experience of childbirth is physically and emotionally demanding. Who you assign to be your trusted partner and support during those grueling moments can make or break this experience. There are several advantages to hiring a birth doula. Let’s take a deep dive into the many things this person can offer to help you through the most vulnerable time in your life.
Emotional Support and Guidance
It’s essential to note that a birth doula cannot provide any medical aid. Their biggest role is to provide unwavering emotional support and guidance. As you dig deep into your physical and emotional tolerance to bring new life into this world, you will find that doubts, fears, or traumas may come to the surface.
A doula can stand by your side, remind you of your strength, and guide you through your feelings. This is a significant aid to a mother’s well-being regardless of her preferred birthing method.
Pain Management Strategies
There will come a point in your laboring journey where the pain will require you to make a decision: will you receive medicine or not? If you are steadfast that you want a fully natural labor and delivery, a doula can offer you some effective pain management strategies to help alleviate discomfort and relax your body.
Breathing exercises, counterpoint massage, and supported motion can help the body relax and assist you in managing new contractions.
Partner Assistance and Support
Not only can a birth doula support the mother, but this person can provide assistance and support to the partner. Partners often feel helpless, scared, and anxious during labor. A doula can help calm the partner down and serve as an educated guide to the mother’s laboring and delivery process.
Typically, with enough information, the partners can remain focused and continue to support the mother. Additionally, suppose the doula carries a Pinard horn fetoscope. They can teach the partner best practices on checking for the fetal heartbeat to ensure the baby’s well-being and provide everyone peace of mind during labor.
Lactation Advice and Support
In the event the mother wishes to breastfeed, a doula can offer advice, support, and assistance. While breastfeeding is natural, it does not come naturally to every mother or baby.
Most often, the baby will need assistance getting their latch and suckling during the early hours and days of postpartum. Once they figure this out, the journey becomes much easier, but a doula can guide this process to ensure smooth transitions.
Postpartum Services
After you successfully deliver your beautiful baby, a doula’s job is not done. Depending on what services this individual offers, they may provide additional support throughout the postpartum chapter.
The postpartum period is a time for nourishment, rest, and recovery. Everyone will need guidance and support as they transition into this new normal, and a doula can offer meal services, in-home assistance, or one-to-one guidance for the mother as she begins her new journey.
There are many reasons to hire a birth doula and have her at your side during this unique experience. The things this individual can offer to you, your baby, and your partner will help ease your mind, provide a safe environment, and ensure your well-being above all.
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