Are you getting your birthing plan together in preparation for the arrival of your child? Consider adding a doula to that plan. A doula is not a midwife, so she won't be delivering the child for you. Your team of obstetrics physicians will be handling that part. Rather, the doula is your birthing partner and assistant. She will be there before, during, and even after the birth to provide you with comfort, soothing, and information as you require it. She also helps you communicate better with your obstetrician, and facilitates the participation of the baby's other parent to his own level of comfort. A doula makes the birthing and post-birth period a lot easier on you. Here are three great reasons to have one by your side.

1. They Are There for You Throughout the Birth

A doula will be there with you throughout your birthing process. She'll hold your hand if need be, massage you, help with getting you into more comfortable labor positions, and provide you with emotional support and physical comfort in whatever way you ask (so if you need someone to go get you ice chips, she's the one to do it).

If you need information to make good decisions during the birth, your doula will give it to you. She won't make decisions for you, but will make sure you and your obstetricians are on the same page. This facilitation of communication makes the birth much easier and more pleasant on everyone.

2. A Doula Makes the Birthing Experience a More Special, Memorable One

According to AmericanPregnancy.org, women who use doulas need less pain medication after childbirth. They are also less likely to need a Caesarean section, thanks to the doula's expert knowledge of female physiology, which she will share during your birthing experience.

When you have less pain and feel more empowered in your decision making during the birth, the whole thing will be much more enjoyable and memorable for you. The birth will be a special experience you will always cherish (and making sure of that is also part of the doula's job).

3. They Provide Much-Needed Support After the Birth

A doula's job doesn't end with the birth of your child. She will be around to help you adjust to motherhood. Her job is to make the transition to being a mom as easy on you as possible.

To that end, she will do light household chores like cooking and cleaning for you, care for the baby so you can get some much-needed sleep, and help you with breastfeeding. She will also give you emotional support as you adjust, and provide you with information on infant care.

Conclusion

Having a doula makes giving birth feel like the natural experience it is. If you want to feel empowered as a woman during your pregnancy, birth, and post-partum periods, consider hiring a doula to be your pregnancy partner.For more information ask obstetrics physicians if one is right for you.