"As a
mother of four who has been fortunate enough to have
had exceptionally
good birth experiences, I feel compelled
to
help women at such an
emotional time in their lives.
Unfortunately pregnancy and birth are
sometimes viewed
negatively in our society. It is my desire to show people what
a
positive and empowering experience childbirth is"
--Kim
Wilson, Doula
What is a Doula?
A
woman who...
..recognizes
birth as a key life experience that the mother will remember forever.
..understands
the physiology of birth and the emotional needs of the woman in labor.
...assists the
woman and her partner in preparing for and carrying out their plans
for the birth.
...stays by the
side of the laboring woman throughout the entire labor.
...provides
emotional support, physical comfort measures, an objective viewpoint
and assistance to the woman in getting the information she needs to
make good decisions.
...facilitates
communication between the
laboring woman, her partner and clinical care providers.
...perceives
her role as one who nurtures and protects the woman’s memory of her
birth.
Benefits of Having a Doula
Studies show that having
a Doula can:
reduce your chances
of a cesarean birth by 50%.
decrease your need
for pain medications.
decrease your chances
of having an episiotomy.
shorten the length of
your labor.
lessen the chances of
an extended hospital stay for. both you and your baby.
help you to have a
more satisfying birth experience.
From Mothering the Mother: How a Doula Can
Help You Have a Shorter, Easier and Healthier Birth, Klaus, Kennell,
and Klaus (1993).
