Labor is an intense, life changing experience. Having a dedicated companion to support you throughout the experience is greatly beneficial. This person may be your spouse, partner, doula, friend or family member. You may also want to consider additional people who can help and what their role(s) will be.
Birth Partner
The birth partner often has a large role in providing support during labor, although the specific role may vary depending on your situation and personal preferences. These are a few things (although not all) that the support person may be responsible for:
Helping you be as comfortable as possible.
Staying calm at all times and providing verbal praise, support and encouragement.
Reminding you to maintain a slow, rhythmic breathing pattern.
Providing massage or physical touch.
Being your advocate and communicating your preferences with the medical team.
Ensuring that the environment is as relaxing as possible. Minimizing or eliminating any distractions or elements creating tension.
Calling the doctor/midwife/doula/family to relay progress.
Transportation to the birth location.
Providing food and drink as needed and caring for other needs.
Additional Support
You may benefit from having additional support so that your partner is able to take breaks, get some sleep or eat a meal, while you always have someone you trust by your side. A family member or friend can serve in this additional support role, or you may consider hiring a doula.
Some find solitude relaxing in labor, while others prefer companionship and will be comforted by the presence of several people. Consider your preferences ahead of time as you determine who you wish to have surrounding you during your labor and birth. As you assemble your labor support team, it is important that you only include people who make you feel comfortable and safe. Do not invite anyone to your birth who creates tension for you or does not support your birth goals.
Doula Support
A doula is a trained professional who provides physical, emotional and informational support during pregnancy, labor and after the birth. Doulas are beneficial for all kinds of births.
Why Use a Doula
Loving support from someone who knows you well (partner, friend or family member) is highly beneficial. This support can be enhanced by the addition of an experienced, objective professional, called a doula. A doula's primary focus is ensuring that you have a positive and supported birth experience. A doula will not replace your partner, but can provide guidance for and act as a team with your partner. Doulas typically meet with parents several times prenatally to learn their preferences and how to best provide support.
Studies have shown numerous benefits of continuous labor support from a doula. These include fewer interventions, lower cesarean rates, shorter labors, and overall more satisfying birth experiences.
Chiropractors, acupuncturists, massage therapists, physical therapists and other professionals may also offer services during pregnancy and/or early labor that can provide comfort. If you use these services, seek professionals who specialize in pregnancy and ask about their credentials and qualifications, as well as the benefits and risks of any specific treatment options.
Limitations
A doula does not provide medical care and should not give you medical advice or make decisions for you. Training, credentials and experience vary among doulas.
It is important to feel comfortable with your doula. Some doulas work independently and you can get to know them before labor begins. Others are part of a group or employed by an organization or hospital with rotating on-call schedules. This means that you may not know the doula who attends your birth. Before hiring a doula, ask for recommendations and interview several in order to find the best fit for your expectations, personality and goals. Check with your birth place regarding their doula policies as well.
Customized Support
A doula will use their experience to assess how well you are coping and offer suggestions they believe will be effective. If you are coping well (calm and relaxed), your doula will simply encourage you to continue what you are doing and stay nearby and available. If you are struggling (tense or panicked), your doula will provide a calm presence and offer specific direction such as a new position or technique or other tools to increase your ability to manage. A doula will remind you of your original goals, but follow your lead if circumstances necessitate a change of plans, and encourage you to ask questions regarding medical care. Doulas are often happy to take pictures for you as well.