Why use a Doula?

In a hospital of today it is unlikely that a woman would have continuous one to one care while she is in labour. A Doula can be a reassuring and familiar presence for a woman and her partner at what can be an anxious and exciting time. For a woman and her partner the birth of their baby is a unique and life changing experience, and to have a Doula present can help to minimize the stress which can be associated with this experience, and to make it positive and unforgettable.

Research has shown that having a Doula alongside you during the birth process can lead to:- *

• 50% reduction of caesarean rate 25% shorter labour
• 60% reduction in epidural requests
• 30% reduction in analgesia use
• 40% reduction in forceps delivery

Here's what two of Nicola's customers have to say:-

"During the delivery, she provided my husband and I with exactly the support we needed. Nicky came to the house after midnight when I knew I was in labour. Having her there was a real comfort - she knew what I needed and what would help me before I could ask for it. She then accompanied us to the hospital, and stayed with us throughout, helping me through the most difficult bits of the delivery. When it was all over the midwife in attendance made the comment to Nicky "You can attend all of my births". I certainly felt the same."

This second quote is from a part time paediatrician

"Without going into details of my labour, the ways Nicky helped were numerous. Most importantly she gave me the confidence to deal with my contractions, and pointed out what I was doing that had made certain ones less painful/more manageable than others. She reminded us of things we had forgotten, such as drinking, eating, using homeopathic remedies I had brought and different positions to try. She kept my husband calm and focused, and there seemed to be less intrusions into the room, as people knew we had someone with us. I believe Nicky helped me to have the natural labour that I wanted without analgesia, in contrast to my previous labour."

* From Mothering the Mother: How a Doula Can Help You Have a Shorter, Easier and Healthier Birth by Marshall H. Klaus (Perseus Press, 1993)

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