Doulas are changing the world

Sounds like a pretty bold statement doesn`t it?

I believe right down to my core, this is in fact what doulas are doing every time they work with a couple as they become parents.

Whitney Huston had it right when she sang “I believe the children are our future…”  I’m certain of this too.

Who has the biggest impact on children and therefore the world?

Parents

When does this relationship start?

Pregnancy and birth

Who helps these parents with this transition?

Doulas
There’s my point.

How do Doulas have such an impact on this important event?  I’m so glad you asked.

1. Information-Type in a question/topic into google and parents will get so many contradicting answers, their heads will start swimming.  Try calling your Doctor or hospital nowadays and you will see very quickly that they are not going to answer your questions.  I quick call, text, or email to your doula helps you gain the accurate and relevant information you need to ease your mind.  Let`s not even get started talking about the middle of the night concerns leading up to the birth that can cause expectant parents blood pressure to rise.  Again, a quick call to your doula and you will feel reassured.
2. Help navigating through the health system-Walk into a labour and delivery unit and it feels like you have walked into a new world.  There are terms you may not understand and equipment you have never seen.  This can be a very intimidating experience for expecting parents.  What is that for?  What is that noise?  Who is that?  What does that mean?  These are all answers your doula can answer for you.
3. Help remembering prenatal class info on the day of the birth-So many expectant parents leave prenatal classes feeling VERY overwhelmed.  “How are we supposed to remember all that information?” parents ask.   This is a common question and the answer is your DOULA.  A doula will help you remember the breathing and massage techniques, different positions to help ease discomfort, and remind you of all the options available to you throughout the experience.
4. Support for partners-Without a doula, the partner has to play the role of an expert.  An expert in something they have never done before. They have to remember everything from class and then apply these techniques in the birth room.  Having a doula allows your partner to remain your partner and  focus their attention on what they know-emotional support.  Allow the doula to do the rest.  Partners can now ENJOY the process and stay more connected to mom.  This helps them connect with baby throughout the process and that helps build their confidence as parents.  This confidence is magnified when the doula shows them techniques that work well for baby care once you they are all home.
5. Support when you get home-The first 2-3 weeks after having a baby is the hardest transition you will ever face in your life.  It’s difficult to know where to turn for help and advice.  A doula will come to your home, go over breastfeeding and answer all your questions.  They can be a shoulder to cry on and an nonjudgmental ear to listen to how you feel.  They can give suggestions and share with you what is normal and when to seek medical advice.

So what does this all have to do with changing the world through families?-EVERYTHING!!  As doulas, we help to reduce stress and anxiety surrounding the whole experience of meeting your baby for the first time.  When you have less anxiety you are more likely to enjoy the process.  This creates a positive birth memory and brings the bond between you and your baby closer in a shorter period of time.  It also boosts your confidence in your ability to parent your child through love and support.  When children grow up in homes where they feel love and support from before they were even born, those babies become awesome adults who can do amazing things for the world.  I’m thrilled to be a part of this.  YAY DOULAS!