The Power of the Doula

Jun 25

Three Reasons to Invite a Doula to Your Birth Space

The power of a doula is immeasurable. Like a steady compass, they guide and support families through the stormy seas of labor, providing a constant source of strength, comfort, and reassurance. In their steadfast presence, they hold space for the birthing person's emotions, fears, and triumphs, offering unwavering support and advocacy. Doulas are not only witnesses to the miracle of life, but guardians of the sacred birthing experience, ensuring that every birthing person feels heard, empowered, and surrounded by love.

Are you expecting or simply planning for when you get pregnant? Congratulations! This time is such a sacred window of waiting, wondering, hoping, planning, and many ways of preparing for the transformation of parenthood. As I’m sure you’ve already felt, the journey of pregnancy and birth prep can be both exciting and overwhelming. As you navigate this season of preparation, have you considered the support of a birth doula? Doulas are not just hand holders, they bring into the birth experience a magical power to help you and your partner feel supported, seen, heard, and most of all prepared for your birthing experience.

Their statistics speak for themselves offering a 39% decrease in the risk of Cesarean, 34% decrease in a negative birth experience, and even a 34% increase in breastfeeding success. But what the numbers don’t share is what the power of the doula looks like. So today I wanted to share

Three powerful reasons to invite a doula into your birth experience and preparation.

doula supports woman in water birth in Boulder birth center

1. Knowledge Is Power

A seasoned doula brings education, training, and diverse birth experience to the table. They have unique wisdom, knowledge, and intuition to help guide you and your partner through the many decisions of birth prep, childbirth, and postpartum. Doulas are trained professionals who understand the intricacies of labor and delivery. Whether you're a first-time mother or have previous childbirth experiences, the expertise of a doula is invaluable. They can educate you about the different stages of labor, guide you in making informed decisions, and provide evidence-based information about various birthing options. Armed with a doula's knowledge, you can approach your birth with confidence and be an active participant in your care.

2. Emotional and Physical Support

The emotional and physical support provided by a doula during labor is unparalleled. While healthcare providers like nurses and doctors focus on the medical aspect, doulas are there to offer continuous companionship and comfort throughout the entire process. Your doula will be by your side, offering encouragement, reassurance, and a calming presence. They can suggest various relaxation techniques, help you find comfortable positions, and provide massage and other soothing measures to alleviate discomfort. With a doula's unwavering support, you can sail through the waves of labor with confidence and inner strength. Doulas are also there to support the birth partner emotionally as they navigate often new and scary feelings observing their partner during labor. You will never feel alone when you have an amazing doula supporting you in the birth space.

3. Advocacy and Communication

Advocacy plays a crucial role during childbirth, ensuring that your voice is heard and your choices respected. However, in the intensity of labor, it can be challenging to effectively communicate your desires and navigate the medical environment. This is where a doula shines. As your advocate, the doula will help bridge the gap between you and your care providers, promoting open dialogue and ensuring your birth preferences are well-understood. They can help you and your partner create a plan and talk to medical professionals in a calm and evidenced-based way. Your doula can also help you develop a birth plan, discuss it with your medical team, and assist you in making any necessary adjustments as the labor progresses. With a trusted doula in your corner, you can confidently navigate the complexities of the birth space.

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Hi, I’m Lindsey

Doula and birth photographer based in Denver Colorado! Mama of two and passionate believer that documenting the journey of birth can heal and change lives!