The way a woman is treated during labour and birth will significantly impact her postpartum recovery; therefore, having her partner, as well as an additional independent support person there to guide her and provide her with comfort is invaluable.
An experienced doula may suggest some helpful techniques like “rebozo sifting”, “hip squeezes” or “massage” to provide pain relief and comfort; however, if you are trying to do these physical techniques on your own for an extended period of time, this can be exhausting, so having the option of a “tag team” to give the maximum benefits of those techniques is helpful.
When partners are trying to do (or remember) the many different techniques they may have been taught during independent childbirth classes, this can also be challenging, or if the couple haven’t attended independent childbirth classes, they may be clueless on what options are available to help the mother cope through her labour and birth.
Your doula can assist you in understanding the processes and language of your caregivers and to be that conduit in helping you comprehend medical procedures and hospital policies.
Your doula will be there so your partner can go for a walk, get some food or take a break – or even have a bit of sleep if the opportunity arises, which is so important because nobody can predict how long labour will be and they need to be ready to assist you during that intense birthing phase too.
Your doula can assist you in understanding the processes and language of your caregivers and to be that conduit in helping you comprehend medical procedures and hospital policies.
Women are wired for birth and, during labour, may act in a primal and unfamiliar way, or your partner will see you in pain and become distressed, which in turn will make you feel more distressed. Your doula will recognise this behaviour as a normal process of birth and will be able to reassure you and your partner.
Partners may also need to be prepared to be with the woman during surgery should a caesarean become necessary. It can also be reassuring to have someone who discusses this prior and offers partners support and encouragement during that time.
Doulas know that most partners are eager to be involved during labour and birth, but sometimes they may find it challenging to navigate through the unknown, or if special circumstances arise, it is such a relief having someone they can learn from and gain more information from.
While a doula may initially be a stranger to you, she will undoubtedly become a trusted birth coach helping you both on all levels – the mind, the body and the emotions – to create that beautiful synergy of energy on the day.
Hiring a doula will give you and your partner a dedicated birth coach who will educate you, prepare you, help you to work through fear, manage pain, and guide you through any deviations or special circumstances that arise.
You won’t regret it.
Your doula’s skills and knowledge can help you feel more relaxed and safe – which is the key to a calm, positive birth.
Vicki Hobbs is the founder and one of the trainers at the Doula Training Academy. If you would like to connect with a doula, fill out the contact form on their website, and they will provide you with the names and details of doulas near you who are available around your estimated due date. To find out more about training to be a doula, check out their website.
