Midwife/Birth Assistant
What will You do at my birth as a Birth Assistant?
I know I wear so many hats such as Doula, Childbirth Educator, Lactation Consultant, Massage Therapist and many more. Here’s more information on what I do as a birth assistant.
As a Birth Assistant I am responsible for assisting your midwife in creating a safe and peaceful birthing environment.
During your birth ,I may assist the midwife in taking the your blood pressure, temperature, pulse, listening to baby’s heart tones, and setting up supplies. I will encourage you to stay hydrated and may give suggestions that are helpful to your birth.
You may notice me writing or on the computer at your birth. I will be updating your electronic record, recording things such as when you have something to eat or drink, or when the baby’s head is born.
If there are any medical events that develop, as a birth assistant I’m trained to respond and know how to best assist the midwife. I am CPR Certified & trained in neonatal resuscitation and can help if the baby needs help to breathe.
After your birth space is clean, I schedule a postpartum visit with you and say my goodbyes.
HOw do you differ from a Doula?
When I’m hired as a Doula, I provide nothing medical. My sole focus is making sure you are comfortable, by providing hand on support. As a birth assistant my main goals are getting your vitals, keeping your chart up to date and helping the midwife. In that role I may occasionally offer suggestion and or show you and your support people how to do a techniques that can help. So while I provide a very limited hands on approach, your Doula would be your continuous hands on support outside of your partner. (family/friend)