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Frequently asked questions about doulas

 
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Why is there a need for doulas?

Who can benefit from having a doula?

Doulas are ideal as support for mothers who want to look after their babies themselves and will welcome the help and advice traditionally offered by their own mothers or experienced sisters in the days when extended families lived close enough to be constantly on hand.

What is the difference between a doula and a midwife or a health visitor?

Doulas are not medical professionals but they are mothers themselves. They do not offer medical diagnosis, treatment or advice but, just as importantly, they can offer reassurance when parents are worrying needlessly about a baby that will not settle or sleep or is displaying a harmless rash. They are not part of a medical team, but if they are supporting a woman in

 

 


labour, in the hospital or in the home, they can act as her advocate and constant companion. However, they cannot challenge medical or midwifery advice given to the woman or persuade her against a course of action or treatment suggested by the medical team. A doula will stay with a mother throughout labour as midwives are not always able to do (due to shortage of midwives available) and as she is not affiliated with a hospital she will focus on the mother's needs and best interests.

Are doulas of any practical benefit in the birthing room or do they just make the mother feel happier?

A recent report in the United States (Mothering the Mother by Kennel, Klaus and Kennel) showed that caesarean births could be cut by half, labour duration could be reduced by 25 per cent and the odds of a forceps delivery reduced by 40 per cent if more women have the support of a doula during labour.

Is a doula only for a hospital birth?

No, a doula can help you for a home birth or in hospital.

What is the difference between a doula and a maternity nurse?

Maternity nurses are baby-centred while doulas are mother and family-centred. A maternity nurse will give you 24-hour care for six days a week and will get up at night with the baby and set a routine for him or her. A doula will help the mother to do the mothering. She will help with breastfeeding, help with housework, and encourage the mother to care for herself as well as the baby. She will also be quite flexible in the hours she can work for you.