Monthly Archives: September 2016

What should you expect if you hire a birth doula?

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What should you expect if you hire a birth doula?

This is based on what I do and how I practice.  Each doula has her own unique way of practicing and serving families.  This will help each mom decide what is important to her.  What she needs during labor and delivery. The things I feel are most important I have made bold.

  • A doula will help support your partner and family so they can support you.
  • A doula will help reassure your partner by keeping them calm and relaxed so they can be there for you.
  • A doula will respect your religious beliefs and practices.
  • A doula will come and labor with you at home (no matter what hour) until it is time to go to the hospital, birthing center or if you are choosing to have a home birth.
  • A doula will provide massage – belly, back, feet, whatever you need.
  • A doula will do the hip squeeze and other counter pressures to try and minimize the pain of labor.
  • A doula will remind you to stay hydrated while in labor (depending on where you are delivering a doula will encourage you to eat).
  • A doula will remind you to use the restroom during labor.
  • A doula will help with pushing.  Holding a leg, etc.
  • A doula will comfort you with a wet cool cloth on your face.
  • A doula will help you change sides while lying if you have an epidural.
  • A doula will in the event of a cesarean continue to support the mother and partner.  A doula will also support those waiting for the birth. A doula will not leave while mother is back during her cesarean.

 

http://angiesbirthwithlovedoula-com.webs.com/

What is a birth doula?

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What is a birth doula?

Doula comes from the ancient Greek meaning “a woman who serves”. A birth doula serves women and families by providing emotional and physical support throughout pregnancy, labor and right after birth. A birth doula gives you information to enable you to make informed decisions about your pregnancy, labor and delivery. A birth doula becomes someone you can count on for love and care during this time of great excitement. As a birth doula I carry with me each and every birth I have attended over the years. I love what I DOULA!

 

http://angiesbirthwithlovedoula-com.webs.com/

What should you do during early labor?

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What should you do during early labor?

Any signs of labor can be very exciting for some and scary for others. It can bring on a bunch of different emotions. There are several different things you can do during early labor.

Suggestions:

– Take this time to finish packing if you are delivering in a hospital or birth center.

– Take this time to clear your mind and prepare for the journey ahead.

– Snuggle with your little one(s) if you already have children.

– Take a bath.

– Make sure and drink plenty of water and eat. You want to stay hydrated and give your body energy.

– My biggest suggestion is rest. Try and sleep if you can. It is important so you can make it through active labor.

Enjoy this time before your baby is in your arms. Enjoy the waves that wash over your body with each contraction.

 

http://angiesbirthwithlovedoula-com.webs.com/

Should I have a birth plan?

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Should I have a birth plan?

Birth plans can be helpful.  They should be limited to one or two pages.  Birth plans are a good opportunity to learn what is important to you for your labor and delivery.  They can help educate you and your partner with the different things you can expect from your provider, hospital, labor and delivery.  Not every provider or hospital operates the same way. Once a birth plan is completed it allows you to discuss the things that are important to you with your healthcare provider and it allows your healthcare provider to share what they can do.

With a birth plan there needs to be an understanding that things can also change.  Sometimes unexpected complications or concerns can arise during labor and delivery.  Some of the birth plans I use with expectant parents have options, should that happen.  If you are planning a vaginal birth and you end up needing a c-section, “what would be important to you”.  In a moment of changing your birth plan, “how can you walk away feeling like you are still getting some of the things you feel are important”.

As a birth doula I offer my parents an opportunity to help them with their birth plan.  If you have a doula ask them if they offer this service.  I know one of the amazing OB’s in my area gives her patients a birth plan for them to fill out.  So ask your provider if they offer this to their patients.

Tips:

  • Use the birth plan to educate yourself and your partner.
  • Keep it to one or two pages.
  • Take it to your provider so you can discuss with him or her.
  • MOST IMPORTANT: Be prepared for it to possibly change if needed to have a healthy baby and healthy momma!

 

http://angiesbirthwithlovedoula-com.webs.com/