Once the partner is prepared, some couples also choose extra support people including doulas. Research shows that having a doula reduces the need for epidurals, the caesarean section rate, and increases satisfaction for both mother and partner. My client Trish said about her doula, “Having Jodi at the birth gave us continuity of care. We had a real pro in the room who was always in our corner, and her confident yet calm nature was empowering”. Having a doula is proven to influence the way a birth unfolds and how women feel about their experience.
Other ways a woman can influence her birth experience include choosing a positive mindset. The mind is powerful and responds to what we think, what we say, and loves creating pictures. Imagine the difference for one woman who repeatedly says and thinks, “I really don’t want a caesarean”, or “I’m so afraid of hospitals”, and another who watches positive waterbirth videos, imagines herself feeling thrilled and empowered while holding her newborn baby in her arms in the water, and telling herself every day that she is a powerful birthing woman.
Having a doula is proven to influence the way a birth unfolds and how women feel about their experience.
No-one can control what happens during labour and birth because it’s a wondrous, spontaneous process which is different every single time. But women can influence the outcome of their birth by making wise choices all the way through pregnancy, and focusing on it being a positive experience where they feel supported, prepared and informed, with skills to manage whatever comes their way during the mystery and miracle of bringing a baby into the world.
Karen Shlegeris is a Childbirth & Parenting Educator, Pregnancy & Postnatal Yoga Instructor, Doula, Infant Massage Instructor and Author of Inspired Pregnancy, Joyful Birth. Visit her website at www.birthandbabyvillage.com.au and connect with her on Facebook and Instagram.
