Have you considered hiring a doula for added support during labor? Wouldnt it be easier for a mother to have someone nurturing, guiding, suggesting and comforting throughout the entire childbirth process? Doulas have your best interest at heart because they work for you not the hospital.

WHAT ARE DOULAS?

Specially trained women helping women through childbirth.

Offer a continual presence vs. the hospital staff coming and going.

Provide pre-natal visits to go over birth plans and birth desires.

Give suggestions to help facilitate labor progress.

Massage, encourage and guide a woman throughout labor.

They have a bag full of labor aids that help eliminate the discomforts during childbirth.

WHAT DOULAS DON'T DO:

Vaginal exams, or medical interventions.

Deliveries

Speak up for the woman; rather encourage her to voice her wishes

Take over Dads role

WHAT'S IN IT FOR BIRTH PARTNER?

The birth partner can participate at his own comfort level.

When he wants to be the main partner, he has an assistant. He can go to the bathroom, eat or even sleep if he needs to without compromising the womans comfort.

Women love when their partners are nurturing during labor. This is taught by the doulas example. Bonus points for Dad.

Doulas can provide education and knowledge through out the labor, explaining procedures, etc. This can reduce Dad and Moms anxiety.

THE BONUSES FOR HAVING A DOULA

50% reduction in cesareans

25 % reduction in the length of labor

40% reduction in pitocin

60% reduction in the need for epidurals

30% more likely to be breastfeeding 6 weeks post-partum

Less incidences of post-partum depression

More bonding with the baby

Women experience a more satisfying birth experience

You may find a doula in your area by the internet, or by talking to your childbirth educator.