An Empowered Birth: The Positive Impact of Doulas and How to Navigate Maternal Health Deserts

Hey there,

I wanted to share with you one of the biggest decisions i did not make during my journey to motherhood that i regret to this day…that was not hiring a doula for my twin pregnancy. For those of you who may not be familiar, a doula is a trained professional who provides emotional, physical and informational support to expecting mothers before, during, and after childbirth. The word "doula" comes from the ancient Greek word meaning "a woman who serves." The practice of using doulas during childbirth dates back centuries, with evidence of their presence found in ancient cultures such as Egypt and Greece. They were traditionally used to support women during labor and delivery, as well as provide postpartum care and support.

Using a doula is like having a travel guide to climb Mount Everest or a coach to play football. They provide support, guidance, and expert knowledge to help you navigate the challenges and obstacles that may arise. With a doula by your side, you can feel confident and prepared for the journey of childbirth, knowing that you have a trusted and experienced companion to guide you through it all. Research has shown that having a doula present during childbirth can have numerous positive effects on both the mother and baby. Studies have found that mothers who use doulas experience shorter labors, decreased likelihood of medical interventions such as cesarean sections, and decreased need for pain medication. Doulas also provide emotional support, which has been linked to reduced rates of postpartum depression and increased success with breastfeeding.

Doulas also play a crucial role in advocating for the mother's wishes and providing them with evidence-based information to make informed decisions during childbirth. This can be especially beneficial for the most vulnerable mothers, such as those from lower-income or marginalized communities, who may not have access to resources and support during pregnancy and childbirth. My pregnancy story navigating a twin pregnancy during COVID, not having a lot of support, and not feeling heard as a woman of color during an unexpected postpartum emergency visit. As i reflect now, these experiences showed me the areas where a well chosen Doula would have been prudent.

While the benefits of using a doula are well-supported by research, and i will always advocate for every mother to have the accessibility to have one. I want to make sure i offer a balanced discussion and share that there are some potential negatives that one might encounter in choosing a Doula. Some women may feel that having an extra person present during such an intimate experience can be overwhelming or intrusive. Additionally, some doulas may not have proper training or certification, so it is important to do research and choose a doula carefully. If you are considering using a doula, it is important to communicate openly and honestly with them about your expectations, concerns, and preferences. This will help establish a trusting relationship and ensure that the doula is able to provide the best possible support for you. Ultimately, the decision to use a doula is a personal one and may not be the right choice for everyone. But for those who do choose to work with a doula, the benefits can be immeasurable. Their support can make a significant difference in the overall childbirth experience, helping mothers feel more informed, confident, and empowered during this important time in their lives.

If someone is unable to have a doula or find one due to a maternal health desert in your area, there are still ways they can replicate some of the benefits of having a doula. One option is to seek out a trusted and knowledgeable friend or family member to act as a support person during labor and delivery. Another option is to attend childbirth education classes, and read lots of books that can provide information and techniques to help cope with the challenges of childbirth. Additionally, online resources, such as virtual doula services, can offer support and guidance remotely. It's important for individuals in this situation to communicate their needs and preferences with their healthcare provider, who can also play a supportive role during childbirth.

So i hope i have been able to share with you the positive benefits of using a doula and how to navigate situations where you cannot have one. If you have any further questions or would like to learn more about doulas, please don't hesitate to reach out. I am always here to help! You can message me on instagram @saveyourselfmama.

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