What does a Birth Doula do?
The services offered
by a doula vary greatly according to the needs of the mother-to-be /
parents-to-be. A doula's role has to be flexible to fit in with the
given situation e.g. the type of support will differ for a first time
mum to that of a woman who has children already. Every birth is unique
and therefore every woman's experience is also unique.
Before Childbirth, the doula will usually meet
with the mother (or couple) twice face-to-face, and then be available
by phone or for additional meetings as appropriate. The purpose is to
build a good relationship with understanding and trust.
During Labour, the doula is able to offer help
and suggestions on comfort measures such as breathing, relaxation, movement
and positioning. The doula can also encourage the father to participate
in the birth to a level at which he feels comfortable. The doula's most
important role is to provide nurturing, continuous support and reassurance
in helping the mother have the birth she wants. She will support the
mother throughout the labour - however long.
After childbirth, the doula will follow up
with a couple of postnatal visits to help the new mum settle at home
with her new baby, or alternatively, the mother may decide to employ
a postnatal doula for a period of (generally) 6 - 8 weeks.
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What services does a Postnatal Doula offer
?
It will
vary according to the mother or the family's wishes. The services include
moral and practical support to the mother and family. The doula will
help with breastfeeding, the housework, older siblings and baby of course.
She will encourage the mother to care for herself as well as the baby.
The doula can do some food shopping, prepare tea/dinner, make school
runs,... A bit like if the new mother had her own mother there for a
few days after the birth - to give support and help around the house.
Postnatal
doulas are usually far more flexible than other (hired) postnatal support
and will help the mother in the tasks that she needs most. |
