Doulas and labor coaches: Overview
When you're in labor, you can get support from your partner, a loved one, or a friend. You may also get support from hospital nurses, a midwife, or a doula (say "DOO-luh").
A doula is a birth coach who can support you while you're in labor and delivering your baby. They can also help you feel supported after your baby is born.
Having a doula or support person with you may reduce your labor time. And you might be less likely to need pain medicines.
If you're interested in working with a doula, ask your friends, doctor, midwife or hospital for recommendations.
Doula
A doula is someone who provides emotional support and comfort measures during labor and delivery. Doulas may also provide support and nonmedical care during pregnancy or after the baby is born. Doulas usually are not licensed health professionals, although some may be nurses.
How can a doula help during labor?
A doula's job is to help support you before, during, and after your baby is born. During labor, a doula can focus on your needs and offer you continuous support.
There are many ways a doula can offer support. They might:
- Meet with you to learn your birth preferences.
- Teach you about what to expect and how to prepare for labor.
- Listen to your concerns.
- Answer questions.
- Reassure and encourage you during labor.
- Track your labor.
- Remind hospital staff about your wishes and birth preferences.
- Guide a birth photographer, if you have one.
- Help you feel comfortable, calm, and relaxed. They might:
- Give you a massage.
- Help you get into different positions.
- Use guided imagery to help ease your pain.
- Remind you to take deep breaths.
- Walk with you.
If you have a partner or loved one with you during labor, a doula can also help that person feel confident and helpful.
©2011-2024 Healthwise, Incorporated