Why You Should Consider a Doula

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You may have heard a friend or family member mention they want to hire a doula and you find yourself asking, “what’s that?” Believe me, as a doula, I get asked that question every day!

What is a doula?

Doulas work closely with expecting mothers and their families to provide non-medical support during pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum period. A doula can provide emotional, physical, and informational support. During your child’s birth, the medical team may have many things to focus on, while a doula focuses solely on the mother. Doulas will be familiar with your individual wishes and preferences and can be very helpful in creating a birth plan.

doula support

What do doulas do?

  • Offer continuous support and encouragement
  • Provide references and advice during pregnancy
  • Help mother to understand medical procedures
  • Suggest comfort measures such as positioning during labor/delivery
  • Assist with creation of a birth plan
  • Assist with breastfeeding
  • Not a substitute for partners or spouse but another member of the team

Benefits of Hiring a Doula

  • Higher satisfaction with the birthing experience
  • The doula’s focus is on mom and partner
  • Shorter labor time
  • Lower rate of C-sections, epidurals, or medical interventions
  • Lower rate of induction medications used
  • Fewer pain medications used
  • Moms feel more comfortable and confident
  • Higher success rate with breastfeeding

birth doula support

Doulas act as an advocate for mothers and facilitate communication between care providers and families. They are available to provide birth support and/or postpartum support. There are several wonderful doulas throughout the state and in the Midlands. The support and encouragement they offer during pregnancy, birth and the postpartum period is truly amazing.

Have you utilized a doula? What was your experience?

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Natalie Welanetz
A South Carolina native, Natalie has recently moved back to Columbia after several years of living in various states across the country while her husband served the United States Navy. Now that she and her husband have settled down, they are beginning the process to adopt a child of their own. She and he husband, suffered the loss of a child and due to complications are unable to have children of their own. While living in Washington state, Natalie became interested in helping families going through the loss of a child and became certified as a doula and today she runs her nonprofit organization, Healing Grace Childbirth Services, supporting families affected by pregnancy and infant loss. She is also active with the Stillbirthday program, acting as a Student lead and representative for the state of South Carolina. Natalie holds a bachelor’s degree in healthcare administration and is a few months away from completing her MBA. In her free time, Natalie enjoys cooking, refinishing old furniture, spending time with her puppies and, in the fall, tailgating for the Gamecocks. She blogs about her journey towards adoption on her personal blog, Project: Build Our Family.

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