|
Why not use a family member or friend as a doula?
A friend of family member can certainly act as your doula since they know you well. However, some people are not completely comfortable with those people being present. Or some people want a more objective person present since births are so emotional for you, your partner, and your family and friends. Also, birth doulas have extensive training in the birth process and are familiar with local birth facilities.
Why do I need a doula if I have my partner or husband with me at the birth?
A doula does not take the place of your partner or husband. In fact, a doula enhances that role by making sure that the partner is taken care of and encouraged, too. A doula can help make the birth experience positive for mothers and partners and make them both feel good about themselves.
What if I plan on getting an epidural?
Doulas are not only for people planning an unmedicated birth. They are for everyone. I have served clients who planned on getting epidurals, who weren't sure, and who were planning not to. My goal is to help you achieve your goals for your birth experience, which may or may not include pain medication. Sometimes people want to delay an epidural until later in labor so they know they will need physical support before they accept pain medication. Sometimes epidurals don't work completely and a women wants to make sure she has support with any discomfort she might be having even with pain medication.
|