What does a doula offer?

My mission as a doula is to provide women with the support and assistance they need from the beginning of pregnancy planning until the end of their child's first year. I support them in exactly the way they want it and for as long as they need it. Thanks to two very different birth experiences and two children with a small age gap, I know very well how important it is to have somebody that understands you without words. Becoming a parent is all about birth, growth and development, for both the woman and the man.

At the moment I am mostly dedicated to postpartum and breastfeeding support, but if you are sure that you want me to support you and your baby at birth, we can meet and talk 🙂 You can find information about postpartum support and breastfeeding counseling here .

The role of the doula in the past and today

Women have been giving birth with a support person since ancient times, as evidenced by archaeological finds and anthropological studies. While in the past, female relatives, neighbors, etc. played the role of support person, today women are supported in addition to their loved ones by a professional doula, that not only shares her warmth and experience, but also has the relevant training.

The Estonian Association of Birth Support Workers, to which I belong as a doula, writes on its website what the role of a doula is and how it differs from that of a doctor and midwife:

“A doula is a non-medical professional with experience and knowledge that provides advice and support during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period.

The goal is to create the most positive experience of pregnancy and childbirth through awareness. Midwives and doctors mainly deal with the physical side of the woman, but it is also very important to support the woman psychologically and emotionally. During childbirth, paying attention to all parts at once gives the best result - physical, emotional, psychological and informative help. For example, relieving labor pains with warm water or massage, coping with labor by creating the right voice, maintaining a positive attitude with affirmations, remembering breathing exercises, changing birth positions and coping with emerging emotions. Various studies confirm that births with a birth attendant are faster and require less medical intervention. In addition, the percentage of cesarean sections is lower in births with doulas.“

Cooperation between doula and a family begins very often during pregnancy

Thanks to this, a reliable bond has been established during the birth, which creates a safe, relaxing and pleasant atmosphere for the mother and family. While the medical staff is primarily focused on monitoring the health indicators of the mother and child, the doula takes care of the emotional side of the family. Both are part of an important whole. The role of a birth support person does not necessarily end with the birth of the child. The doula advises and supports the mother and family on issues related to breastfeeding and the new life arrangement even after the birth of the child, sharing her experiences and knowledge.

Even if a woman has given birth before, she may need support, advice and encouragement. Every pregnancy and birth is different and unique, just like babies. A doula can help reduce the stress, tension and fears associated with expecting, giving birth and adjusting to a new citizen of the world. Every woman deserves a doula!”

Source: Estonian Association of Birth Support Workers © 2020