what is a birth doula?


A birth doula will provide a continuous presence throughout pregnancy, birth and postpartum, giving emotional, physical and educational support to help women feel safe and empowered, with no judgement and for all types of births.

It is vital to provide this continuous and unconditional support for women in birth to achieve positive birth outcomes for mother, baby and family.

Doulas are trained to use the right tools to help provide unique support for each mother, every time.


Some of the ways a doula can support you throughout your birth is by;

  • Suggesting and guiding position changes
  • Positive affirmations
  • Reminders of hydration & nourishment
  • Provides tag team relief for your partner
  • Helps you understand what medical professionals are telling you
  • Compressions during contractions
  • Can assist with movement between showers, baths & bathroom
  • Provide support to help this process be as comfortable as possible

BENEFITS OF A BIRTH DOULA


  • Educates and supports parents to be
  • Provides comfort measures
  • Helps advocate for your choices during birth
  • Assists you to achieve positive birth outcomes
  • Easing your transition to home (if having a hospital birth)
  • A helping hand during birth and after

STatistics


See below to see the statistics associated with continued support from a doula during labour and birth for birth and maternal outcomes.

"40% less likely to give birth via C-section"

"50% less likely to have an operative vaginal birth (forceps or vacuum)"

"70% less likely to get an epidural"

"55% less likely to have an episiotomy"

"60% less likely to receive synthetic oxytocin augmentation"

"40% less likely to experience 3rd or 4th degree perineal tear"

"75% less chance of maternal infection"

"30% less chance of postpartum haemorrhaging"

WHAT BIRTHS DO DOULAS SUPPORT?

All TYPES of births


As a doula we support you in your birth choice regardless of how you choose to birth. From a home birth, unmedicated water birth in the hospital, unassisted / free birth, hospital birth with an epidural, VBAC (vaginal birth after caesarean) or planned / emergency caesarean you can enjoy the benefits and comforts of a doula.

Fun fact, no matter where you choose to birth, whether it is in your backyard, in a hospital, at the beach or in a forest we will be there every step of the way to support you.