Birth doulas are especially helpful in assisting laboring women stick to their birth plan while maintaining a calm atmosphere during the labor and delivery process. A birth doula does this by helping the laboring mother stay focused and remain relaxed through contractions, assisting in self-hypnosis (or going to a “happy” place in her mind), breathing with the mother, showing the father how to be as supportive as possible throughout the process, providing massage and other touch-therapy, and providing aromatherapy. She also assists the laboring mother with walking and changing positions to speed-up labor, help the baby descend, and use position changes to turn the baby in the womb when the baby is mal-positioned. A Lubbock doula also helps the birthing team communicate efficiently with healthcare professionals and explains any possible medical procedures to the mother and the father, thereby helping the mother avoid any unnecessary medical interventions. She also helps the father feel more comfortable so that he can participate during the labor and birth and so that he can offer support to the mother.
The presence of a birth doula has been proven to:
After the birth of the newborn, the doula stays with the mother and baby for a time to help the mother with the basics of breastfeeding and to make sure the new family is as comfortable as possible. She answers any questions the mother and father may have about how the birth went, about the recovery period, and first few days or weeks of their new baby’s life.
A doula provides labor assistance from the time the mother calls once she feels that labor has started, until after the baby is born and the family has been settled in the recovery area and feels comfortable with her doula leaving. She can call her doula whether she is still at home, or once at the hospital or in the birthing facility. It is important that women seeking information about doulas know that a doula will never leave the mother’s side throughout the labor and delivery, except for a few moments to use the facilities or eat a quick snack (it is important that your doula keep her energy levels high so that she is able to assist you in any way you need through out this exciting experience). A Lubbock doula’s main focus is on ensuring that the mother is as comfortable as possible and helping the mother feel that she has control over her labor and delivery experience to the extent she desires. The mother can call on her doula as soon as she feels the need for labor support and can have peace of mind knowing that her doula will not leave her side.
When seeking a Lubbock birth doula, there are a series of questions that you should ask any prospective doula. Below is a list you can use to help you make an informed decision when hiring a doula:
Add any questions that you feel are important to your individual birth experience.
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