Nurturing Hands Family Wellness Centre

Most doula-client relationships begin a few months before the baby is due. During this period, they develop a relationship where the family feels free to ask questions, express their fears and concerns, and takes an active role in creating a birth plan. Doulas make themselves available to the family by phone or email in order to respond to their questions or explain any developments that might arise during the course of the pregnancy. However, they are knowledgeable in many medical aspects of labor and delivery. Consequently, they can help their clients gain a better understanding of the procedures surrounding the birth and early hours of motherhood. During labor and delivery, doulas are in constant and close proximity to the mother. They have the ability to provide comfort with pain relief techniques that include breathing techniques, relaxation techniques, massage, and laboring positions. Doulas also encourage participation from the partner and offer reassurance. A doula acts as an advocate for the family, encouraging and helping them fulfill specific desires that they might have for their birth. The goal of a doula is to help the mother experience a positive and safe birth, whether an un-medicated, medicated birth or cesarean. After the birth, labor doulas will spend some time helping mothers begin the breastfeeding process and encouraging bonding between the new baby and other family members.