If a woman has her partner or a nurse to assist her during labour and delivery, why have a Doula?
Great question! Besides the partner, the birth Doula may be the only other person there solely for the emotional well-being of the woman. Your nurse, Doctor or midwife have other priorities, demands and responsibilities that may compete with the emotional and physical demands of the labouring woman – i.e. shift changes, other labouring women, clinical responsibilities, specific job descriptions, staff shortages and hospital policies that dictate their roles and responsibilities. As your Doula, I have one priority – “meeting the emotional, physical and informational needs of the woman and her partner (if applicable).” Other than a quick bathroom break, I don’t leave your side from start to finish. It has been stated that a labouring woman may see an average of 6 strangers in her room throughout her during labour and delivery. As your Doula, you’ll always have a familiar, trusted face nearby. I work closely with your partner to ensure their needs are met (food, drink and reassurance), al
