Considering a Doula for your Vancouver Birth Team?

What does doula support look like?

Each family has a unique journey, and no two are alike. As you get to know your doula, you will discuss your plans, desires and form a more intimate relationship which will help identify ways that you’ll feel best supported through your experience. Some of the ways doulas offer physical, emotional, and mental care include:

Education – Validation – Birth Planning – Advocacy – Labor Support – Encouragement – Community Resources – Meal Train – Lactation Support – Postpartum Planning – Infant Care – Sibling Support – Birth Processing – Errands – Light Housekeeping – Small Meals

Why would I need a doula if I have my spouse/partner/friend/mom/etc?

A doula serves in so many different ways but one thing a doula does not do is take the place of your other support people. In fact, the doula enhances the birth team by encouraging the support people and helping them relax so they can best support you.

Picture this: you’re laboring at home where you’re planning to deliver. Head down, you reach for your spouse’s hands to grip through your latest contraction. Your doula is making sure the birth tub is filling and also chatting with your toddler who runs in and out of the room. During the break in contractions, she fills your water and makes sure you stay hydrated. She reminds your spouse to also have a snack while she notices your breathing patterns are starting to change. She helps you up and in to the birth tub while your spouse adds warm water. You are all a team and her calm energy helps your people know exactly what to do. She serves not just the birthing person, but the entire family unit.

What are the benefits of receiving prenatal and birth support from a doula?

According to Evidence Based Birth (https://evidencebasedbirth.com/), research has shown that when birthing people have continuous support from a doula during birth, the following trends were observed:

39% decrease in undesired cesareans

15% increase in the likelihood of spontaneous vaginal birth

10% decrease in the use of medication pain relief

Shorter labors overall, by an average of 41 minutes

38% decrease in a baby’s low APGAR score at 5 minutes

31% decrease in the risk of being dissatisfied with the birth experience

What about postpartum doulas?

It goes without saying that in the transition to parenthood, we can use all the support we can get. A postpartum doula can be an incredible source of support for you and your family in this most precious postpartum time. A doula is there to serve, listen and offer care in whatever way you may need.

For families near Vancouver, Washington, check out Building Your Birth Team in SW Washington

To start your search for a doula on the North Coast of Oregon, check out Building Your Birth Team on Oregon’s North Coast.