Birth Support - Are Doulas really necessary?

I never had a doula for either of my births. I honestly didn’t know what they were. I knew what midwives were but not doulas. Oh I wish I had researched and heard about them. Low key I was my sisters doula at the birth of her daughter 12 years ago.

Now you may ask… Are Doulas Really Necessary?

The decision of whether or not to hire a doula is a personal one. There are many factors to consider, such as your budget, your personal preferences, and your healthcare provider's recommendations. However, there are a number of benefits to having a doula, including:

• Increased satisfaction with the birth experience.

  Studies have shown that women who have doulas are more likely to be satisfied with their birth experience overall. They are also more likely to have a vaginal birth, to breastfeed for longer, and to have less pain after birth.

• Reduced stress and anxiety.

  Labor and childbirth can be a stressful experience. Doulas can help to reduce stress and anxiety by providing emotional support and practical help. They can also offer guidance and advice on a variety of topics, such as pain management, breastfeeding, and postpartum care.

• Increased sense of control.

  Doulas can help women to feel more in control of their birth experience. They can offer suggestions and support, but ultimately the decision-making is up to the woman.

• Increased safety.

  Doulas can help to ensure that women have a safe and healthy birth. They can help to advocate for the woman's needs and to make sure that she receives the best possible care.

If you are considering hiring a doula, there are a few things you can do to find the right one for you. You can search online- Birth Doulas in Boston MA or Hospital Doula in your town MA. I would also recommend you ask friends or family for referrals. You can certainly reach out to me as well for some awesome recommendations. Once you have a few names, be sure to interview each doula to make sure that you feel comfortable with them and that their philosophy of care aligns with your own.

If you are looking for a way to improve your birth experience and to increase your chances of having a safe and healthy birth, then hiring a doula may be a good option for you. Doulas can provide emotional support, practical help, and advocacy, and they can help you to feel more in control of your birth experience.