What is a Doula?
The word Doula means “a woman who serves women”. Today, the word is used to describe a woman who has been specifically trained to give physical, emotional & informational support to a pregnant couple during labour, birth and beyond.
A Doula…
- offers (and/or demonstrates to birth partner) different physical comfort measures such as
- massage
- counter pressure
- positions
- movements
- breathing techniques
- heat & cold therapy
- and much more
- is present throughout the entire process, while medical staff come and go, giving continuity of care and thereby reducing stress
- brings a sense of calm and safety during what can be an anxious time for couples
- provides information, explains what is happening, and helps facilitate communication between the couple and medical staff
- is there to support the birthing woman and her partner, thereby reducing anxiety in both
- can greatly reduce the need for pain medications and interventions
- offers reassurance, encouragement, praise, attentive listening and care
- ensures that the parents’ privacy & dignity are protected
- is an extra pair of hands
- can take pictures, if the couple prefer to delegate this task
- empowers the couple to have the birth they want
- helps the couple have a positive labour and birth experience
Research shows that the COMBINATION of partner + doula gives the best outcomes
A Doula DOES NOT…
- give medical advice
- diagnose
- perform any medical procedures
- prescribe treatments
- make decisions for her clients
- speak on behalf of her clients
- pressure her clients into any choices
- take over partner’s role
SERVICES PROVIDED
Support for Vaginal Birth:
- Initial introductory meeting (to see if we are a good fit; no obligation)
- Prenatal consultation to discuss birth plan, preferences, comfort measures etc. (90 minutes)
- Support during labour and birth (however long it takes)
- Support initiating skin-to-skin and/or breastfeeding (60 minutes)
- Postnatal consultation (90 minutes)
- Support via WhatsApp before and after baby’s birth
- If a caesarean section becomes necessary, I will accompany you to theater (if allowed) and assist with skin-to-skin/breastfeeding after the birth
- Fee: R3750 all inclusive
- Fee can be claimed back from some medical aids*
Support for Scheduled Caesarean Birth:
- Initial introductory meeting (to see if we are a good fit; no obligation)
- Support immediately before, during and after operation (if hospital allows)
- Support initiating skin-to-skin and breastfeeding (60 minutes)
- Postnatal consultation (90 minutes)
- Support via WhatsApp before and after baby’s birth
- Fee: R1500 all inclusive
- Fee can be claimed back from some medical aids*
If you are interested in hiring a Doula, please WhatsApp me at 083 292 5252 or e-mail ericaneser@gmail.com.
* Fee may not be covered 100%
