Using a doula

Chatting to a MooMoo Mommy recently I felt so inspired by her role as a doula and helping other new Mommies deliver their babies, that I thought I would share this option with you.

There are so many complicated decisions to make when it comes to delivering your baby. Everybody has an opinion and it is sometimes hard to not feel judged for your choices. Giving birth is a miracle event whichever option you choose and however your baby arrives.

Women have very complex needs during childbirth and require consistent, continuous reassurance, comfort, encouragement and respect. They need individualised care based on their own circumstances and preferences.

Doulas are trained and experienced in childbirth and are usually mothers themselves. While they have good knowledge and awareness of the birth process, a doula does not support the mother in a medical role.  She will not make decisions for those she supports, but she will assist them through the decision making process. A doula provides balanced information so a couple can make their own choices.

She will help create a loving space for the baby to enter the world and is skilled with providing emotional support to the mother and her partner.

She is able to remain calm and focused which can sometimes be very difficult for family members and partners who are emotional.

A very important fact for me is that rather than reducing a partner’s participation in the birth process, a doula’s support complements and reinforces their role. Partners feel more enthusiastic and that their contribution to the labour and birth was meaningful and helpful.

What does a Doula do:

She will help you write your birth plan and inform you of your choices  before and during the birth:

A doula will help you track your labour and help you to decide when to call your  midwife or head to the hospital:

She can assist with getting your birthing pool set up (if you’re having a home water-birth):

A doula will help you get settled in at the hospital (if you are having a hospital birth):

She will work with your partner to help you get comfortable:

A doula will wipe your brow & remind you to breathe, she may massage and squeeze your hips :

She will help your partner feel confident:

A doula supports you with words of encouragement:

She may guide you through your first round of breastfeeding:

She will share in your emotion:

 And she will step back while you enjoy some really precious moments:

If you are looking for a doula to support you in Cape Town please contact Julia on 083 469 1232.