So, what is a doula? A doula is a non-medical companion who supports a birthing mother. This support is provided through continuous care before, during, or after childbirth. It can be in the form of information, physical support and emotional support. They may also provide support to the partner and family.

Many mothers that I’ve spoken to over the years have expressed that their pregnancy, labor and delivery experiences were unpleasant.  According to the Health Resources & Services Administration, the maternal mortality and morbidity rate is increasing.  In an effort to ease the anxiety and concerns that many mothers have regarding the childbirth and the associated risks I’ve provided a list of reasons why having a doula involved in your childbirth experience may help to alleviate some of your fears.

On the show 5 REASONS TO HAVE A DOULA practicing doula, Sierra Shuler from Charlotte, NC gave insightful information on the benefits of having a Doula.  If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, here are the top 5 reasons to have a Doula.

1. Doulas provide SUPPORT to the mother, spouse, and family. Sometimes you may not know how to express your concerns, or you may feel misunderstood. A doula is there to listen and coach you through your feelings.
2. A doula is an ADVOCATE for the mother. Often you don’t know what you don’t know. This is especially true for first-time parents. There may be questions that you don’t know to ask or terms you may not understand. A doula will advocate on your behalf and on behalf of your baby.
3. Doulas EDUCATE the mother on what is happening to her body, how to respond and what to expect. As your body changes throughout your pregnancy, it can be very scary. Your doula is there to help you understand the changes and provide guidance on self-care.
4. Doulas provide COMFORT to the mother (in the form of emotional support). It can feel lonely during pregnancy when you have concerns, and you don’t want to worry your spouse or family. Your doula can help you navigate your emotions and help you convey your feelings to the people who need to hear it (your spouse, family, or doctor).
5. A doulas presence has been found to REDUCE requests for pain medication, the use of forceps, and the number of cesarean births…among many other benefits.

While there are many great physical and emotional benefits to having a doula this information would be biased if I didn’t provide some scenarios in which having a doula may not be the best option.

1. If you are having a planned cesarean, a labor and birth doula is not necessary; however, a postpartum doula may be right up your alley to assist with infant feeding, emotional and physical recovery from birth, mother-baby bonding, infant soothing, and basic newborn care.
2. If you don’t know what you’re signing up for.  Sure, having a doula sounds great but ask questions.  What are your needs and how can a doula be helpful to your situation.  Remember the U in doula is all about YOU!
3. If your team is not in agreement. Always consult with your birthing team…your doctor(s) or Mid-wife.  All members of your team MUST be able to communicate and be in agreement with your choices and what is best for you and your baby. This is a team effort towards a happy and healthy mother and baby.

Whether this is your first pregnancy or your fifth pregnancy there is always an opportunity to learn.  I encourage you to do some research so that you can make a more informed decision.  To get you started, click on the resources tab for doulas to get more information on organizations that provide resources on how to find a doula, what questions to ask and even how to become a doula.  To learn about our featured doula, Sierra Shuler, click on the Guests Tab for Sierra to read her bio.

Be sure to watch the show 5 REASONS TO HAVE A DOULA If you miss it, SUBCRIBE to our YouTube channel so you can catch it later. Please leave a COMMENT because we care about what you think. LIKE if this article was insightful, and please SHARE this information with anyone that could find it useful.

The opinions expressed on this site are published for educational and informational purposes only, and are not intended as a diagnosis, treatment or as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis and treatment. Please consult a local physician or other health care professional for your specific health care and/or medical needs or concerns.

This site does not endorse or recommend any commercial products, medical treatments, pharmaceuticals, brand names, processes, or services; the use of any trade, firm, or corporation name is for the information and education of the viewing public, and the mention of any of the above on this site or the show does not constitute an endorsement, recommendation, or favoring by Saran Almond and/or NARASARAN Media.