What is a Doula?
The word "doula" comes from ancient Greek and is now used
to refer to someone experienced in childbirth who provides
continuous physical, emotional and informational support to
a mother before, during, and just after childbirth; or who
provides emotional and practical support during the
postpartum period. Doulas are taught to work within
evidence-based standards of practice.
During labor, these skills are medically proven to make a
true difference in the experience of birth, decreasing
costly interventions including cesarean section and
increasing maternal satisfaction.
In the postpartum period this support helps ease the
transition into a new family, improves parental satisfaction
and reduces the risk of mood disorders.
Effects on the baby include shorter hospital stays with fewer admissions to special care nurseries, higher occurrence of successful breastfeeding and a better bonding experience.
For the partner, a doula can help them share in birth at a level that feels comfortable. If the partner wants to provide physical comfort, the doula can provide guidance and make suggestions. In the postpartum period, the doula can help a partner with reassuring support and encouragement in developing their parenting style.
Randomized Controlled trials demonstrate that the presence of a doula is also associated with:
Reduction of cesarean rates
Fewer forceps/vacuum deliveries
Less requests for epidurals
Shorter labor
Reduced use of Pitocin/Oxytocin
Lower rates of newborn complications
Increased success with breastfeeding
Reduction in postpartum depression
Increased maternal satisfaction
Contact Me
Tina Atanasio CD(DONA) PCD(DONA) LCCE
Long Island Doula & Childbirth Services
631-878-3079
516-480-1005 cell
E-mail: tinamom6@optonline.net
