We Are Celebrating World Doula Week!

One of our greatest honors is being invited into such a special, intimate vulnerable time in a mother's life. Women supporting other women-whether that is during labor, breastfeeding woes, or the depths of postpartum-is truly how we see strong communities formed. Support and encourage the mom, which builds up the family, and then it builds everyone around them. This is just one of the many reasons we are celebrating World Doula Week, and our incredible team of birth and postpartum doulas!

For those of you who are reading this and don't know what a doula is, or maybe want to share with a friend or loved one, here is our description:

"A doula is the person whose primary focus is to the meet the emotional and physical needs of a laboring or newly postpartum mother. She provides support, comfort, and knowledge, before, during, and after labor. She is trained to respectfully work with medical professionals, to work alongside partners, but her focus will always be on the mother, and on her needs and desires." -Kristi Ramey

We've seen that for a lot of people, they like the general idea of a doula, but aren't quite sure what having one will actually be like, and more importantly, if it will actually help them.

Here are just a few of the reasons our local families have mentioned:

1. "I want to have less interventions."

   While doulas have always existed, the trend towards "unmedicated" births has certainly made them mainstream. Many women have done their research and found that having a doula present during labor may result in lower rates of interventions, specifically epidural use. This includes the time immediately AFTER brith too-known as the "golden hour(S)", and even in the early breastfeeding? Did you know that having outside support during and after labor may result in higher rates of breastfeeding and long term breastfeed success? It's true, and just one more reason to consider having a doula join your birth team.

2. "Really hoping to avoid a c-section"

   C-sections (cesarean sections) are a life saving operation for babies and moms around the world, so don't mistake us for saying that we think they are a bad thing. Not at all! However, if your goal is limit c-section risk, then having a doula present may actually help!

   "...doula guidance in perinatal care was associated with positive delivery outcomes including reduced cesarean sections" cited one study, while another noted that, "continuous presence of a doula during labor significantly decreased the likelihood of cesarean delivery".

   
   

3. "I need an advocate during the moments I can't speak for myself"

   The word "advocacy" has some tricky connotations for people, but at the end of the day, what it can mean is that someone is on your team and working for YOUR goals. There is no demanding, no forcing, no awkward power struggle.

   That doesn't serve anyone. But there is a lot of speaking up, bring things to your attention, and reminding others of the birthing mother's needs and preferences. A doula does not serve as a medical professional, so they aren't there to make medical decisions for you. However, they can certainly help facilitate conversations so that you/your loved one have the time and information necessary to make those decisions with confidence.

   
   

4. "I am doing everything I can for my VBAC"

   Big hugs, mama. Our c-section moms are so brave, and we cannot wait to root for you during this next birth!

   Choosing a VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean) can feel like a daunting decision. We've seen time and time again that the providers you choose and the people you place around you can make all the difference in these situaitons. Like we mentioned above, doulas statistically lower the rates of C-sections, but they also provide emotional and educational support leading up to delivery. You can voice your fears to them, your concerns, and anything else taking space in your mind.

   
   

5. "I want my birth to feel different this time"

   Hey, it's ok to have a plan and a vision for your birth! Don't let othe words or criticisms of others deter you.

   Having a doula gives you a sounding board, someone who can help you get your thoughts out and discuss the practical realities of your "dream birth".

   What didn't you like about your last birth?

   What did you LOVE and hope happens again?

   Was there something that happened still bothers you?

   Was there a particular fear or situation that you want to approach differently in this upcoming birth?

   They can point you towards resources, share what providers they love working with, and be the cheerleader you deserve! THIS study even suggested that the support of a doula during labor could increase the overall satisfaction mothers felt about the birth experience.

   
   

6. "Nervous about the pain and want support during labor"

   Did you know THIS study also said those who hire doulas are more likely to take a childbirth education course? Not all of our clients go that route, and that's ok! However, the more you know, the better you can prepare, and that includes preparing for the physical realities of childbirth. Fear can heighten the intensity of pain, and a doula can not only help you practice and plan for contraction sensations...she will guide you through them as they happen! Hip squeezes, postion changes, a warm (or cold) compress or vomit bag at just the right moment, whatever you need-they will provide.

   
   

7. I need a support person that isn't my husband or my mom!

   Hey, we get it. Doulas aren't there to take the place of another loved friend or family member. Instead we work WITH the rest of your birth team. Sometimes a mom just needs to be a mom for you. A husband or partner might just want to sit and hold your hand.

   We also see folks in the birthing room who aren't sure how to respond or what to do, and end up putting unnecessary pressure or stress on the laboring woman. That's ok! No matter what is happening in the room, we will maintain our focus on you and your needs.

Perhaps you already know your reasons for wanting a doula...now what? How do you go about actually hiring one, and what do you need to ask?

Each person's situation will be different, but here are a few things to consider:

-Rates and services offered

-Availability and if they have a back-up

-Their overall experience and qualifications

-Their relationship with area hospitals and providers (you don't want someone who will automatically create drama once you step foot in the hospital)

-A willingness to work with your cultural or religious observations

-Their birthing "philosophy" and if they will work well with your goals and situation

-How they perceive advocacy and work through challenging moments with medical professionals

-Their postpartum education and ability to support you in lactation, newborn care, and postpartum challenges

If you are currently looking for a birth (or postpartum) doula and live in the Richmond, VA area, consider reaching out to us here at Richmond Birth and Baby!

You can always reach out with basic questions, but our hiring process includes a full Q&A session where you can discuss your needs with one (or more) of our team members.

In addition to this, you are guaranteed TWO doulas as our team works with a partner system. Why? Because life happens, even for doulas "on call", and we make sure someone will always be there for you!