Is a doula for you?

A doula is not a medical professional, so she can’t make any medical decisions or actually deliver the baby. What she does do though, is offer emotional support and care for the mom.

“She’s rather like a mom for the expectant mom,” says Jude Pollack, founder and director of Genesis Clinic in Johannesburg. “While others are focused on safely delivering baby, the doula is entirely focused on mom and her wellbeing. She looks after mom’s needs, from ensuring her favourite music is on the CD player to defending the mom’s birthing wishes if another practitioner tries to bully her into accepting unnecessary procedures.

“She doesn’t replace your husband or partner, but rather offers another element of support for both parents. She’s an advocate for the mom, a nurturer, and is a constant encouraging presence during the birth.”

Why you might want a Doula:

• You want emotional support during your pregnancy and throughout the birth.
• You want someone who’ll help both you and dad understand what is happening in pregnancy or labour, especially if complications arise.
• You want to use drug-free pain relief such as massage or relaxation techniques.
• You want someone to ensure your birthing wishes are respected, and to advocate for you during the birth, communicating with medical staff if needed.

A doula can help you get into that positive space before, and can keep you there throughout the birth.

Doulas and hospitals

You don’t have to give birth at home to enjoy the support of a doula. Though still in the minority in South Africa, some progressive hospitals will let doulas accompany moms and dads into the labour ward and even into the operating theatre for those moms having c-sections. Some gynaes also offer subsidiary doula services to their patients.

For more information, visit: www.genesisclinic.co.za

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