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Frequently asked questions & myths

 

 

 

Will my partner feel left out if I have a doula present?

 

A partner's role and presence during your labour is extremely important. As a doula, I never take over. On the contrary, most partners find they are more involved with a doula present. My role is never to make a partner feel left out, but to get them involved as much as they feel they want to. As a doula, I can support you partner by giving them information when asked, meeting their physical needs, and reminding them of ways to help their partner during their labour, all while making them feel more at ease and more confident during the journey. In the end, a calmer partner results in a calmer mom.

 

I have a midwife. Would I still benefit from having a doula?

 

Absolutely! A midwife has a very distinct role as the mothers' primary caregiver. The midwife has a clinical role (which means A LOT of necessary busy charting), delivers the baby, and the health of baby and mom are her highest interest. Because a doula does NOT perform any clinical tasks, a doula is able to be fully and unconditionally present for the Mom and partner physically, emotional, mentally, and for information and advocacy. 

Midwives and doulas share the philosophy; women have the right to informed choices. Midwives and doulas work very well together and complement each other's roles. 

When should I hire a doula?

 

I recommend hiring in the second trimester. This way, there is plenty of time to make full use of the knowledge, skills and services I have to offer. A connection between myself, mom and partner is extremely important. The more time we have to establish this connection and trust, the better!

 

 

My partner is skeptical about having a doula present. What can I do?

 

Sometimes, we just need to see some concrete statistics to convince us! There are many growing statistics and articles showing the benefits of having a doula present. Studies have shown that when a doula is present, labours tend to be shorter with less complications and interventions. Everyone involved with the labour has more positive feelings and memories. The need for pitocin (a synthetic form of oxytocin, used to induce labour) is decreased and the rate of epidurals and pain medications are reduced. With a doula present who never leaves your side, statistics show the outcome benefits mom and baby!

 

"Labour is the only blind date where you know you will meet the love of your life."

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