Is A Doula Right For You?

I've been asked by many families if you only have a doula for the first birth. The answer is No. There are so many reasons you can have a birth doula regardless of which pregnancy this might be for you.

The presence of a doula can be beneficial no matter what type of birth you are planning. Many women reported needing fewer interventions when having a doula present for the birth. But remember that the primary role of your doula is to help you have a safe and pleasant birth experience–not to help you choose the type of birth you want.

For women who have a medicated birth, your doula will continue to still provide emotional, informational, and physical support through labor.  Your doulas will work alongside you to help you deal with potential side effects that might arise from the medications. Your doula will also be able to continue to help with your other needs as well, as you are likely to still experience discomfort during labor regardless of medication.

If you are facing a cesarean, your doula can be helpful by providing constant support and encouragement. Often, the decision to have a cesarean is unexpected and can leave you feeling unprepared, disappointed, and lonely. Your doula can be attentive you at all times leading up to the cesarean, and possibly throughout depending on your OBGYN and the hospital. This can free the partner to attend to the baby and accompany the newborn to the nursery if there are complications.

Your doula is there to help you feel empowered, protected & strong during your pregnancy, labor and postpartum. Doulas help partners not feel alone as it is a special day for them as well.

So what birth is good birth to use a doula? Any birth, at any time, for any situation.

Tamara Kankowski is a Certified Birth Doula as well as a Certified Postpartum Doula.   If you are interested in birth or postpartum doula services, contact Tamara today to set up a free consultation.  

Tamara works with families throughout the both the Cincinnati and Dayton areas including: Loveland, Mason, West Chester, Milford, Hyde Park, Liberty Township, Monroe, Middletown, Beechmont, Bridgetown, Colerain, Fairfield, Newtown, Covington KY, Florence KY, Fort Thomas KY, Fort Mitchell KY, Highland Heights KY, Newport KY, Springboro, Centerville, Miamisburg,  Kettering, Beavercreek, Moraine, Riverside, Huber Heights.