F.A.Q's Doula Edition

WHAT'S A DOULA?

A person who is trained to assist a family during childbirth and who may provide support to the family after the baby is born. At Destination Baby, we provide support from conception all the way through parenthood. The key components to our support are unbiased Physical, Emotional and Educational Support.

Physical Support- Helping using labor comfort techniques, attending doctor visits, light housekeeping, caring for the infant, providing light meals and so much more!

Emotional Support- This is an exciting time, but with that also comes concern as well. We understand and are available to talk with our clients 24/7. Your concerns are valid and we want to be there to support all the things going on with you. We cheer from the sidelines and encourage you during conception, pregnancy, childbirth and beyond.

Educational Support- When your wanting information about conception, pregnancy, childbirth, postpartum and beyond we are your walking talking "Siri". We are proud of the clients resources we have to provide. You will have access to an amazing amount of topics we have put together. We are always adding more articles and books to our collection to be prepared for our clients.

WHY ARE BIRTH OUTCOMES BETTER WITH DOULAS?

While we can't guarantee a certain outcome, randomized control studies have found that the presence of a trained doula benefits everyone. The studies have shown that doula care is associated with shorter labors, less use of epidurals and other pain medications, lower episiotomy rates, and as much as a 50% reduction in the C-section rate. Research has also shown better clinical outcomes for both the mother and the baby (including fewer admissions to neonatal special care units, better breastfeeding rates, and better family bonding). A doula also provides care for the mother’s partner and other family members, assists busy hospital staff, saves money, and greatly increases a mother’s overall satisfaction with her birthing experience.

A DOULA? THAT'S LIKE A MIDWIFE, RIGHT?

No, at no time will a labor Doula perform clinical or medical tasks, such as taking temperature ,blood pressure, fetal heart tones, vaginal exams or postpartum clinical care. A Doula only provides non-medical services.

IF WE GET A DOULA, WHAT AM I SUPPOSED TO DO TO SUPPORT MY PARTNER?

Our presence will help partners participate at their own comfort level, showing them how and when to use various comfort techniques, providing information, and in some cases, looking after them as well. A doula doesn’t replace anyone. She is another member of the birth team and supports everyone in their own role.

CAN A DOULA HELP IF I WANT AN EPIDURAL OR CESAREAN?

Yes, we support all births and choices. It's important that clients know, that we support you and respect the choices you make for yourself and family. The doula may or may not be in the operating room, depending on the wishes of the family and the medical staff, but either way, we will be waiting in the recovery room to help with initial feeding. We leave when your ready for family bonding.

CAN I REQUEST A CERTAIN DOULA?

Yes, the more advanced notice we have the better we may accommodate you. If that Doula is booked up, we will do a questionnaire so we can best pair you with a Doula. Meet Our Team!

WHAT HOSPITALS DO YOU SERVE?

Supporting home births as well as at area hospitals and birthing centers including but not limited to:

Proudly serving growing families in Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Carroll, Frederick, Howard and Prince George's Counties to include the following and surrounding areas:

WHAT TYPE OF EXPERIENCE DO YOU HAVE?

Do you have more questions?

Feel free to contact us

Meet The Doula!, Question & AnswersBrittney RiddickSeptember 10, 2018Destination Baby & CO.faq, doula, whats a doulaComment