What a Doula does * She provides emotional support an physical comfort measures by recommending a variety of coping skills and labor management techniques. She is there to remind couples of their options. * She provides support and encouragement for both the mother and her partner. She compliments rather than displaces the partner. * She understands the physiology of the birth experience and the emotional needs of a woman in labor. * She provides the resources, techniques, reassurance and continuous empathetic support a laboring woman needs. * She stays at the mother's side through-out the entire labor and delivery. * She is an advocate for the woman by communicating with and working alongside the medical staff. What a Doula does not do As a doula we do not: * Perform clinical tasks, such as blood pressure, fetal heart checks, vaginal exams, and other. We are there to provide only physical comfort, emotional support and advocacy. * Make decisions for you. We will help you get the information necessary to make informed decisions. We will also remind you if there is a departure from you Birth Plan. * Speak to the staff instead of you regarding matters where decisions are being made. We will discuss your concerns with you and suggest options, but you or your partner will speak on your behalf to the clinical staff. |