The query has to be between 2 and 50 characters
Products in this catalogue
*» BETTER MATERNITY of an independent doula after her experience having her first child in a clinic. “During my own pregnancy | did a lot of research, watching birth videos for instance, and became fascinated by the role of doulas, although | didn’t have one at the time. | realised during the birth, particularly when the midwife left the room for instance, | would have liked someone there with me giving me emotional and physical support also. Midwives in a hospital setting obviously have multiple moms to attend to so you can't expect them to sit by one person's bed throughout their labour, explaining what is happening at each stage. Generally they'll come in and check every hour or so, depending on what stage of labour you're in.” Schmal is quick to point out however that the minute there is even the remotest sign of a problem they will call the midwife or doctor if necessary. “It's also reassuring for partners to have someone else in the room who understands what’s happening.” And like midwives, doulas advise women to only have a home birth if they are a low-risk pregnancy with no health issues such as heart or diabetes problems or if there is a multiple birth. A previous Caesarean would also rule out the possibility of a home birth. A doula’s role is to: « Help develop a birth plan « Provide pre and postnatal education « Plan logistics for the labour, birth and postpartum + Join the mother during labour » Use hands-on techniques to relieve pain during labour » Suggest birthing positions and coping strategies » Provide advocacy during labour and birth » Support the birthing partner « Postpartum visits for basic newborn care and emotional support This isn't a case of which you should have, a midwife or a doula - many women choose both. You can hire a doula for the whole pregnancy period or just the birth. Obviously there are costs involved, but many medical aids do cover a high percentage of these costs. Ultimately it's a woman's personal decision which route to go. For some the comfort and relaxed atmosphere at home against a sterile hospital room is the way to go, whilst others need the reassurance of a medical team at hand. The message perhaps is weigh up the pros and cons of just what is best for you, get the best medical advice possible and enjoy the journey!
| Name | Details |
|---|
