Doulas
A doula is an experienced support person who provides non-clinical care during pregnancy, birth and the early postnatal period.
A birth doula is able to provide continuity of care, assistance with drafting a birth plan, reassurance and encouragement, breathing and relaxation techniques, and massage. She will get to know you, your partner and your aspirations for birth during your pregnancy. She comes to you in labour when you are ready for her and will stay with you until your baby is born. She provides support to your partner as well as to yourself. Doulas can fulfill many roles depending on your particular needs and circumstances.
A postnatal doula can reassure and support, help establish feeding, care for older siblings, do light housework and prepare meals.
A doula does not perform medical tasks and she does not replace your medical care provider.
Levels of experience, training and cost vary. A birth doula may charge between $200 and $1200. Postnatal doulas charge hourly rates. It is worth speaking with a number of doulas to find the right support and price for you.
Although fairly new to the maternity care field in Australia, doulas have become common in the United States with many hospitals now offering pregnant and birthing women this option. This is due in part to busy hospital schedules which prohibit midwives devoting themselves to the care of one women throughout her labour and birth. Early research on the doula option indicates that women experience shorter labours, have less interventions and a greater sense of satisfaction with their birth.
If you are planning a homebirth you will have the benefit of continuity of care and so a doula is not generally necessary. However, if you do choose both a midwife and a doula it is wise for you all to get together during your pregnancy so roles can be clearly defined and any confusion avoided during labour and birth.
Sites to see are:
www.naturaltherapypages.com.au/natural_medicine/wa/Doulas
www.doulasdownundernetwork.com
Or, take a look at our links page which has listings for local doulas.