What is a Birth Doula?

Following is an article that Suzanne Banks Fredregill, certified DONA Doula, wrote for us (and you!) here at Mon Petit Mardi. 

What is a Birth Doula?

Like nurturing Earth Mothers, birth doulas empower laboring women to own their birth experience and to fully participate in the process by providing education, emotional support and physical comfort measures. The Greek term “doula” means “Mothering the mother”, a tradition long practiced in ancient societies where women birthed within a community of other women.

Today’s birth doulas do much the same. They are professional labor coaches who, through intensive training and often a personal calling, provide support for pregnant and laboring couples.

Doulas provide childbirth information to assist parents in making educated decisions about the birth process. They help develop birth plans and advocate for its’ use. They also serve as a liaison between parents and medical staff so the birth experience is a natural event and not a medically managed condition. Doulas also offer comfort measures to provide natural relief, thus reducing the need for pain medications and other medical interventions.

Studies of the use of doulas show a 25% decrease in labor duration, a 30% decrease in the need for pain medications, 40% reduction in the need for oxytocin induction, 50% reduction in c-section rates, and a 60% reduction in epidural use. Increased breastfeeding success, greater reported satisfaction in the birth experience, and more positive newborn assessments have also been associated with professional labor support. Dads also report much more positively when they have someone to provide guidance and encouragement for them, as well.

If you are interested in hiring a doula to personalize your birth experience, contact Doulas of North American (DONA) . Their website can help you locate and hire a doula, answer questions about qualifications and training, and provide birth and postpartum fact sheets. www.dona.org

Be sure and watch for our upcoming article on breastfeeding from Suzanne along with a giveaway of a copy of her 2010 updated book on breastfeeding!

Suzanne has written two books on breastfeeding: 

Everything Breastfeeding Book 2010

You know that breastfeeding is good for your baby--but nursing doesn't always come easy and it can often leave you feeling frustrated and overwhelmed. But The Everything Breastfeeding Book, 2nd Edition is here to help! This friendly, accessible guide helps you make the best choices for you and your baby. It features balanced, practical information on:

·         Finding the most comfortable positions

·         Managing pain and swelling

·         Establishing a feeding routine

·         Pumping and milk storage

·         What to do if your baby is resistant

This updated edition of a parenting classic also includes all-new information on BPA bottle safety, legislation, and tips from real moms who've succeeded. Packed with advice on every aspect of breastfeeding--from latching on to weaning baby off the breast--The Everything Breastfeeding Book, 2nd Edition is every new mom's best friend.

Breastfeeding (Everything You Need to Know About...) 2004                                                         It may be surprising to learn that breastfeeding does not always come as naturally as many mothers expect, so this professional yet friendly handbook offers support and confidence, from preparing to breastfeed and the most comfortable positions, to coaxing a reluctant baby. The ultimate guide to successful breastfeeding any time, any place, anywhere.

About the Author

Suzanne Fredregill, CBE is a Certified Breastfeeding Educator, a Certified DONA Doula, a Certified Infant Massage Instructor, a Certified Childbirth Educator, a Licensed Master of Social Work, and the mom of two breastfed children.

Ray Fredregill is an assistant professor of communications at a private college, and an experienced scriptwriter and journalist. He holds a master's degree in journalism/mass communications.