You may be at a point in your pregnancy when the morning sickness is gone and you seem to have more vibrant energy. Some women feel like they are coasting along in the second trimester, feeling great, finding out the gender of the baby, planning the nursery, picking out nursery colors and a cute theme. But, those thoughts keep popping up in your head about the big day, the BIRTH.
When planning the birth of your first baby, it's all new territory. There are many decisions to be made and planning to be done. Many first time moms ask themselves these questions about the birth:
How will I know when it's time to head to the hospital?
What all happens at the hospital?
What's it going to be like to go through labor and then to deliver a baby out of "there"?
How do I know if labor is going normally?
What are my rights as a patient?
What are my options?
How do I stay calm and relaxed?
Will it hurt?
Will I be a good mom?
I'm here to tell you, women who hire a doula, hire them to get the answers to these questions and much much more. Studies show when a doula is present at births, labors are shorter with fewer complications, babies are healthier, and breastfeed more easily. Doulas provide emotional, informational, and physiological support to families during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. A doula's job is to help you feel confident and prepared for your birth and after, and to be with you continuously during your labor. She will educate you about childbirth so that you can make decisions that are right for you. During your prenatal appointments with your doula, you will discuss the birthing process, stages of labor, comfort measures to use during labor, how to breastfeed, and you will come up with a thorough list of your birth preferences. An important aspect about these prenatal appointments is a doula will help you know what questions to ask your provider and help you build a strong and supportive birth team.
With all the planning and pregnancy hormones, there may be times when you become super emotional. When doubt starts to creep in during your pregnancy, you can call your doula. That is what she is there for, to give you non-judgmental open ears and encourage you. When you spend lots of time with a doula, you will start to believe in yourself and trust that you can do it. After all, we women, were made to grow a baby and give birth. A doula will help you find your inner strength. She will be your biggest cheer leader and give you a wealth of support and education. Give Naya a call at 970-744-9200 and schedule a time to sit down with her and ask your questions.
