During the prenatal visit, most clients utilize the time to discuss their birth preferences, delve into their options, and address any anxieties or fears that may be lingering – whether stemming from past births or the excitement and uncertainties of being a first-time parent.
Your doula's expertise extends to staying abreast of the ever-evolving policies of local hospitals. If there's a question they can't answer on the spot your doula will reach out to our vast BBS community and connections with local nurses, midwives and doctors.
The most often talked about topic is when your doula will join you. It's important that everyone is on the same page about what early labor virtual support looks like, when your doula will physically join you and what happens once they are with you at the hospital.
If you are planning an induction or cesarean birth, your prenatal visit is the perfect time to ask questions, explore options and make a game plan with your doula.
Your doula will guide you through recognizing the signs of labor and when it's time to make the trip to the hospital.
Lastly, support is tailored to your unique preferences across the three pillars of doula care: physical, emotional, and educational. Your doula understands that each client may lean more towards one aspect over the others – whether craving information, physical comfort, or emotional reassurance. By the end of our visit, you'll have a personalized plan that ensures you feel supported through every twist and turn of labor and pushing.
The period between the prenatal visit and the actual birth is a critical time when a doula continues to play a vital role in supporting expectant families. Here's a closer look at how a your doula provides ongoing assistance during this phase:
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Continued Communication: A doula doesn't disappear after the prenatal visit. Instead, they maintain open lines of communication, making themselves available for questions, concerns, or even just to provide reassurance. This ongoing dialogue helps build trust and ensures that the doula remains attuned to the family's evolving needs.
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Birth Plan Refinement: As the due date approaches, a doula works with the expectant parents to refine and finalize their birth plan. This includes discussing preferences, addressing any new considerations, and ensuring that the plan aligns with the family's evolving wishes and expectations.
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Education and Preparation: A doula continues to educate the family about the birthing process, preparing them mentally and emotionally for the upcoming experience. This might involve sharing additional resources, articles, or videos, and discussing coping strategies for both the birthing person and their partner.
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Addressing Anxiety and Fears: The time leading up to birth can be filled with anticipation and, at times, anxiety. A doula is there to provide a listening ear and to address any fears or concerns that may arise. By acknowledging and discussing these emotions, the doula helps create a supportive and reassuring environment.
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Assistance with Decision-Making: Should unexpected developments or choices arise, a doula is well-equipped to provide information and guidance, facilitating informed decision-making. This ensures that the family feels empowered and confident in their choices leading up to the birth.
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Creating a Comfortable Environment: A doula assists the family in preparing a comfortable environment for labor, whether it's at home or in a hospital setting. This includes discussing preferences for lighting, music, aromatherapy, or any other elements that contribute to a calming and positive atmosphere.
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On-Call Support: Recognizing that labor doesn't always adhere to a set schedule, doulas offer on-call support leading up to the birth. This means being available for questions, joining the family when labor begins to ramp up and you are ready for more physical support and providing continuous support as needed.