What is a Labor Assistant or doula?
In short, a Labor Assistant or doula is a woman experienced in childbirth who offers continuous one-on-one care for the birthing woman and her partner. She provides information about the childbirth process, available technology, and alternatives. She trusts the process of birth and facilitates the birth experience for parents, baby, and primary care provider. 2. Why should I hire one? Recent studies have shown that the presence of a skilled Labor Assistant results in: ~shorter labors ~reduced need for pain medication ~fewer episiotomies ~fewer cesarean births ~improved neo-natal outcomes ~improved mother-infant interaction ~greater maternal satisfaction 3. What exactly will you do for me while I’m in labor? I am trained and skilled in various comfort techniques for labor and delivery. I use hands-on comfort measures, emotional support, variations in positions, and suggestions to improve labor patterns. I teach partners how to provide these same skill sets, as well. Prenatally, I provid
