What is a doula? What do doulas do? Here's what you need to know about hiring an Atlanta birth doula.
Have you hired a doula yet? … Asks your mom, best friend, or a random lady in the produce section of Kroger.
But what does that even mean? What is a doula, anyways? Do you really need one?
The term doula is used to describe a trained and experienced professional who provides continuous physical, emotional, and informational support to the mother before, during, and just after birth; or who provides emotional and practical support during the postpartum period.
DONA (Doulas of North America) International
Studies have shown that when doulas attend birth, labors are shorter, there are fewer complications, babies are healthier, and they breastfeed more easily.
Here are the positive outcomes associated with doula-attended births:
- shorter labor
- reduction in cesarean rate
- reduction in oxytocin use
- reduction in forceps delivery
- reduction in epidural request
- reduction in pain medication requests
But what does that mean for you?
- Doulas support the birth that YOU want.
- Using massage, touch, and other techniques, a doula can help make you feel more relaxed and comfortable!
- A doula’s presence at your birth is a huge help to Dad!
- Having a doula present is shown to reduced negative feelings about one’s childbirth experience.
So what do you think about doulas? Have you used one before? Are you planning one for your next birth? Let me know in the comments! And remember, here at Atlanta Doulas, we are here for all your pregnancy and childbirth needs! Reach out today to book a free consult.
