Hospital birth FAQ
why would I have a doula in a hospital setting?
Studies show that having a doula present can help to lower the risk of an emergency c-section. A large part of this is due to aiding in lowering anxiety levels in the mom and partner through hands-on support, education, and being a 'translator' of sorts between doctor and patient.
While a doula cannot prevent true medical emergencies, they can act as an advocate for birth plans, provide support to the partner, and be an extra caregiver in the room for the mom.
Specifically, L+D nurses have commented on how having a doula is an extreme help to them in being able to provide the constant physical and emotional care needed for their patients. Especially due to having other patients at once and are not able to be present constantly themselves.
I'm having to schedule an induction or Cesarean section, does this affect your services?
Not at all! If anything, we believe that these situations require the care of a doula even more than an 'un-medicated' birth. What we would provide in the moment for you would look different, but in no way does this affect taking you on as a client.
I'm having a cesarean section, what would your services look like?
Great question! In the case of a c-section, emergency or planned, we would cover options and preferences in the prenatal meeting regardless of whether you are originally trying to plan for a spontaneous labor. During, if a partner is not present or is unable to be, we would accompany you during the surgery. This to due to only one support person being allowed in the operating room with you.
However, if the partner is present, we would be waiting to hear news of the surgery and baby's birth, and would aid in relaying the information to whoever you wanted that to go to. We would also be present in the transition to your postpartum room and help with anything needed during your 'golden hour'.
I'm having an induction, what would your services look like?
Another great question! In the case of an induction, we would, again, go over all your preferences and options prior to delivery in your prenatal meeting. Pending on what your goal is, we would tailor our services as best as we can to them. So, if you are wanting to avoid pain medication, we would provide physical support to aid in relieving contraction pain. If not, then we would provide the necessary support through the option chosen and aid in the pushing process alongside the nurses when the time comes. Either way, we would stay with you and your partner to assist in whatever is necessary up until shortly after your transition to your postpartum room.