The Value of Labour Support in Today's Society

by: Theresa Broer, CD

Attention all first time pregnant ladies! Do you think you are ready for labour and delivery? Have you attended your local prenatal classes? Does your partner feel confident in his/her ability to care for your labouring needs? Has your partner been through labour before? Has he/she been trained in the area of labour/delivery? Do you think your doctor or the hospital nurses will be there to care for you the entire time you labour? Never assume anything.

The only true way a first time parent is fully prepared, is if they have hired a "Doula." A professionally trained "Labour Support Person". Doula is a Greek word and is referred to as "women supporting women". It is not a new-age trend, however, very old and still exists in many countries.

We are not sure exactly who made the decision that men/our partners should be responsible for a women's labouring needs. Actually, it is quite impossible to fulfill this requirement unless they attend a full training workshop and experience birth for themselves.

Hospitals around the globe are recognizing and reaping the benefits of the special kind of care that a doula offers. With nursing shortages, doulas come in handy when there are many labouring women at one time.

• Doulas meet with their clients 2 to 3 times prior to birth.
• They discuss, prepare and plan the birth wishes and desires of the mom and dad.
• The doula educates mom on the drugs used for pain management.
• The doula supports and encourages family members supporting mom.
• The doula offers techniques to progress labour naturally.
• The doula is there for both mom and her partner so mom does not have to worry about him/her.
• The doula is not in love with mom therefore is never panicky in situations.
• The doula explains what is going on during labour & delivery.
• The doula takes notes the entire labour/birthing process for a detailed birth story later.
• The doula never has shift changes or coffee breaks.
• Some doula take photos for their clients.
• Most doulas assist with the first breastfeedings.
• Overall, the doula is someone you already know, someone you trust and someone that has your best interest at heart when she walks into the labour room.

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