Doulas

The doula provides non-medical, physical and emotional support and accompanies women and couples in labor. The support and companionship can begin early in the pregnancy, sometimes pre-conception, and continues through the postpartum time.

A doula’s continuous, knowledgeable and reassuring presence makes a dramatic difference in how confident and comfortable a woman feels during pregnancy, labor, birth, and beyond. This in turn creates the optimum atmosphere of relaxation and active participation in the process of labor and birth.

Studies found the following benefits associated with the presence of a doula:

Cesarean section                                 down 50%

Length of labor                                    down 25%

Synthetic oxytocin use                     down 40%

Pain medications                                down 30%

Epidurals                                               down 60%

Forcepts or vacuum                           down 30%

In addition, doulas support birth partners by freeing them to give their own unique, intimate attention to the laboring woman. With the assistance of a doula, birth partners can experience birth more fully.

The word doula comes from the Greek and is now used to refer to a woman who cares for other women in childbirth providing continuous physical and emotional support during labor and birth. Following the age old tradition of women helping women through the process of pregnancy, birthing and into postpartum, the present day doula offers human touch and understanding as part of the care team. Doulas work along with physicians, midwives, nurses and with the women’s chosen birth team. Doulas can also help by providing information and support in the pre-natal and postpartum periods. There is growing evidence that labor support is the missing component in maternal and child health care.

Sacred Birthing Community Doulas complete a 13 week course of study under an experienced doula and receive supervision while they complete the requirements for certification. Once certified, these professional doulas may be covered by insurance. Postpartum doulas can make home visits and assist with gathering a community of support around the birthing couple once their baby is here. Assistance with breastfeeding is also available from doulas trained as lactation counselors.

For more information or to contact the Sacred Birthing Community Doulas of Kauai please write to barbaraessmandoula@gmail.com

More information on studies and the research that has been done can be found in “The Doula Book” by Marshall Klaus and John Kennell. The doula organization Doulas of North America (DONA) also provides much information about doulas. Their website address is www.dona.org.