Truth time: I didn’t hire a doula until my fourth birth.
Gasp. I know. And if I could go back in time, I would tell my naive, independent, budget-conscious self that hiring a doula would be the best investment I could make for any of my births.
The Advice I Would Have Given Myself
For my first birth, I would tell myself that having a doula might have helped me avoid being induced at 38 weeks, despite being 7 cm dilated and 90% effaced — and perhaps I wouldn’t have needed an epidural.
For my second birth, I would tell myself that a doula would have helped me be more patient and more willing to wait, rather than quickly agreeing to another induction that led to more interventions. I’m just grateful neither of those births ended in a c-section.
For my third birth, I would tell myself that a doula would have been invaluable in helping me navigate an unmedicated birth for the first time. A doula would have guided my husband and me with comfort measures and been one more cheerleader in the room when I needed it most.
Everyone Needs a Doula
It doesn’t matter if you’re rich or poor, single or married, young or old, planning an epidural or going without, having a c-section or a vaginal birth — you need a doula. Here’s why:
10 Reasons You Need a Doula
- You need a doula to squeeze your hand when there’s nothing to say.
- You need a doula to guide your partner in providing counter-pressure and encourage them to keep up their energy by eating and drinking.
- You need a doula to explain all the medical jargon in the delivery room when you have no idea what’s being said.
- You need a doula at home to be there when the midwife is busy preparing for delivery.
- You need a doula at the birth center to be a calming presence and help you get in “the zone.”
- You need a doula to help you advocate for the birth you want.
- You need a doula to validate your decisions and empower you.
- You need a doula to whisper, “You can do it,” and validate all your feelings.
- You need a doula to wipe your brow with a cold rag.
- You need a doula cheering for you when you give that final push and your baby is born.
Now, more than ever, expecting women are fighting to have their doulas by their side as they prepare to give birth. Whether it’s helping you decide the best place to give birth or supporting your decisions along the way, your doula will be there for you.
A doula will help you realize the power has been in you all along — and she’s there to help you find it.
Guess what? It’s never too late. Whether you’re 8 weeks pregnant or 38 weeks, go out there and find a doula! Find one who aligns with your beliefs about birth. Find one who stands up for you — but more importantly, helps you stand up for yourself. Find one who empowers you to make informed choices and supports your partner in being your greatest support.
For evidence-based statistics on the value of doulas in the birthing space, check out Evidence Based Birth, Evidence on: Doulas.
If you feel I would be a good fit for your birth team as your doula, send me a message — I’d love to meet up and be part of this next amazing chapter of your life!
If you feel that I would be a good fit for your birth team as your doula, shoot me a message!
