Is a Doula worth it?

This is one of the top questions in Google. The simple answer is "Yes!" of course it is. However to begin to navigate the notion of worth I think it is important to highlight the value Doula's provide to you as a mother and your support network.

Research has shown that having a Doula (as a member of your birth team) decreases the overall cesarean rate by 50%, the length of labor by 25%, the use of oxytocin by 40%, and requests for an epidural by 60%*. (Doula UK)

The World Health Organisation recommends mothers are continually supported during childbirth. This is central to a Doula's role, here at Joyful Mothers I believe that a personalised approach means that I recognise each mother as unique, having unique needs which require unique support. To dig deeper and provide clarity on support I mean providing information, advocating for the woman’s needs as well as practical and emotional support.

The value a Joyful Doula will provide you

Childbirth is often a vulnerable time in a woman's life and having a Doula can provide a safe space for a mother to explore and express her feelings without the fear of judgement or guilt. I am sure we have all been there where we are vulnerable and feel like we are too embarrassed or afraid to ask questions for fear of judgement. My approach is to build a trustworthy rapport with you as a mother that gives you the freedom to move from fear to joy.

Doula's are companions who advocate for women during childbirth, ensuring they have the best possible care this may include speaking up in support of a mother and her preferences and reminding those around to keep the mother central to decisions.

The word Doula means to serve and this highlights an important aspect of being a Doula. You cannot be a Doula without serving. As a Doula this serving highlights the practical element of being a Doula, to achieve this a Doula must listen and be in sync with the mother to be able to serve in a way that is sensitive and empowering for the mother.

Mum and baby have improved outcomes with a Doula including;

• Birth Doula's help women to feel in control in a time when they are most vulnerable. With much needed praising, reassurance and physical presence this provides much need confidence and emotional support to women.

• May be less likely to use pain medications, may have shorter labours, and may be more likely to be satisfied with their birth experience. (Doula UK)

• Higher chance of a vaginal birth (without the need for caesarean, forceps or vacuum extraction).

• Bridge the communication gaps between the woman and midwives, health workers or even doctors. At Joyful Mothers we seek to keep you informed about the progress of labour but also the process of childbirth.

• An advocate for the mother, ensuring you as the mother can speak up and confidently express her choice.

• Tips for using non-medical pain relief and lower chance of using medical intervention.

• Doula support may increase equity directly through improved women’s empowerment and provision of culturally responsive care (Doula UK)

• Practical support could be holding hands or walking around providing strength to you or guiding your birthing partner (if you have one) to support you in a way you need.

• The power of touch is not to be underestimated, research has shown that massages during labour are an effective tool to reduce stress and anxiety.

Doula's are an important companion to the mother during labour. Over the years there have been numerous research conducted, providing evidence outlining the benefits of having a Doula and the value they intrinsically bring to the mother and baby. This is at the heart of our approach here at Joyful Mother -Doula's Service. It is my passion here at Joyful Mothers to seek to support you during Birth and also postnatal support is available. Contact me for more information and a FREE consultation.