Midwives vs. Doulas
Everyone has heard of midwives and doulas, but few know the difference. Midwives are experts in female health care. The midwife can help deliver a baby by their qualifications. A doula will be present during the birth, but not physically assist with the delivery.
Before the mother going into labor, she will help her come up with a birthing plan. During the delivery process, she will be a rock of emotional support. The midwife will be more responsible for her physical well-being. Both a midwife and a doula should be present during labor can be extremely beneficial.
The word doula is Greek for “woman’s servant.” A doula promises to serve her client by coaching her through labor. Part of that coaching includes educating her in the childbirth process. She will need to work alongside her client determine the services that will work best for her.
Going through labor is never straight forward, so having a doula focusing on the mother’s needs exclusively can make the delivery process far more comfortable and less stressful.
DONA
DONA stands for Doulas of North America. This is a highly respected certification organization for birth coaches.
The DONA credential is recognized worldwide. Affiliated doulas are responsible for complying with the DONA standards of ethics and conduct.
Doulas should follow their training in supporting their clients in multiple ways.
DONA Promises
She promises to make sure her client’s decisions are respected. Doulas promise not to take anything personally while the mother is having labor pains. She promises, to be honest with her client throughout all interactions. She assures to do what she can to minimize her client’s pain. She also promises to aid her client in feeling secure.
Promises Put Into Action
Women who have doulas by their side are less likely to get a C-section. Doulas will convey the mother’s birthing plan to a doctor. That way they don’t get pushed into a C-section if it is not physically necessary.To keep her client comfortable, she will suggest comfortable birthing positions and offer massages.
Doulas may also try aromatherapy methods to keep her client feeling calm. Scented candles are favorites among modern doulas. Apparently their techniques in keeping their client’s comfortable work. Statistically, females who have doulas will request epidurals less frequently than those who don’t.
Where Doulas Work
Doulas will often team up with a midwife to conduct a home-birth. Again the Doula is the birthing coach, whereas the midwife may serve as a health care professional. In the case no doctor or midwife is present with a doula during delivery, it is called “free-birthing.” Doulas may also be contracted by a hospital or birthing facility.
Having doulas during birth comes with many benefits. The mother can be supported both mentally and verbally. She will be with someone who has a heart for women’s care. Her baby will be less likely to be born on medication.
This is due to the frequent declines by women who have doulas for epidurals. She won’t have to feel as pressured about making decisions as the doula will have already talked to her before about several different outcomes. Health concerns can dictate several different birthing scenarios. Women with doulas will be ready for whatever happens.