Doula: support and comfort for the mother
Doulas are women who provide support and comfort to a mother through the course of labor and delivery. Some evidence suggests births attended by doulas tend to have shorter labors and cesarean sections are less likely.
I meet with the mom twice before labor. During the first visit we will talk about her experience with the pregnancy, with previous labor and delivery, and begin to define her birth plan. During the second meeting we will review the birth plan she has established and make sure we have mutual understanding of her preferences for labor and delivery support.
Comfort measures include physical support for the mother such as applying pressure to painful areas, making suggestions for labor positions or movement, providing soothing or stimulating essential oils, and being available physically and emotionally throughout the whole experience.