Sa Doula Brochure Aug08

The benefits of having a trained Doula 4 Studies have shown that having a doula present during labour: Shortens the labour process

(Campbell et al,

2006; Langer et al 1998),

6educes caesarean

section rates (Thomassen

What does a Doula doA A doula offers:

Brofessional birth support to you, your partner and your family. Bhysical, emotional and informational support during pregnancy, labour and beyond, along with the comfort of experienced continuity of care.

et al, 2003; Scott et al 1999; Kennell et al, 1991)

Has a positive effect on breastfeeding (Langer etal, 1998). :nhances the wellbeing of mothers and babies, reduces the need for medical assistance, mothers feel better about themselves, more positive about the labour and bond more easily with their babies (Marshall H Klaus, John H

Kennell and Phyllis H Klaus, The Doula Book, Cambridge, Perseus Publishing, 2002)

Provides continuous support in labour increasing the chance of a spontaneous vaginal birth (i.e. give birth with neither caesarean nor vacuum nor forceps), women were less likely to use pain medications, had slightly shorter labours, had no identified adverse effects and women were more satisfied. (www.cochrane.org) Improves mothers perception of her experience of labour, her ability to cope with labour, herself as a woman and of her body

This is usually done via: !" a specific number of visits to your home during Pregnancy !" assistance in birth planning and preparation !" accompanying you to hospital / specialist / caregiver visits !" working through your fears !" teaching relaxation techniques !" providing information, resources and emotional support throughout pregnancy. A doula is on call 24/7 for approx 2 weeks before and after your due date or as required. The role of the doula during labour and birth is to enhance the experience for you and your partner. The doula will be there from the time you call for as long as you need her.

(Gordon, Walton, McAdam, Derman, Gallitero and Garrett 1998)

Bostnatal visits to help your new family to bond with your new baby, help with general baby care, feeding options or just to be those extra hands.

Improves mothers self-esteem, lowers anxiety and reduces depression at 6 weeks post-partum (www.bellybelly.com.au)

Et is important to clarify exactly what each doula offers and choose the one that suits you and your partner best.

Where a Doula works 4 Anywhere! A doula works in birth centres, private and public hospitals and at homebirths, always in conjunction with midwives / doctors – never as the sole care giver.

Doulas work privately with you and are not employed by your midwife / doctor or by the hospital. As a courtesy to your midwife / doctor it is advised that you inform them of your choice to include a doula in your birth team. Doulas provide balanced information so you can make your own decisions.

Bricing Prices vary depending on the services offered, the doula’s experience and what other skills your doula offers. Your doula may be professionally trained in areas such as yoga, remedial massage, naturopathy, homeopathy, and more.

What a Doula isn’t4 Doulas are not medically trained. They do not perform clinical tasks, give medical diagnosis/advice or second opinions. The doula’s non-medical support leaves your midwife/doctor more available to care for you and your baby.

Do E still need childbirth education classesA Absolutely! It is vital that both you and your partner learn about the birth process. Sharing a class with other expectant couples adds to your experience and better prepares you for an extraordinary day!

Doulas in South Australia

How do Doulas and Bartners work togetherA

Paula Bruckard Myrtle Bank, 0411 983 723 Luci Bubner Lockleys (Henley Beach), 0417 877 708

Doulas work as part of the birth team. Her knowledge and experience can help partners, family and/or friends participate comfortably at the birth.

A Doula can never replace the love and caring that family and friends can provide during the birth experience. No one else can fill this special role.

“A very special thank-you… You made such a difference at the birth for us both, encouraging me when it all seemed too hard and helping me achieve the birth that has given our little girl the best start in life. Thanks for sharing this special time with us.” Jill - Adelaide

Natasha Chant Semaphore, 0433 100 242 Jayne Hawkins Gawler South, 0406 430 919

Please note many doulas are happy to travel

The Doula can give other support people ideas, reassurance and a rest. Her role is to "be there for you" and help you have the best possible birthing experience, and she does this by working with whoever else is there - and by supporting them also.

Professional Birth Support

Helen Hriskin Stepney, 0412 225 532 Jane Ireland Cowandilla, 0402 473 712 Melissa Serafin Loxton, 0438413869

Doulas of South Australia

Marcia Stillwell Stirling, 0415 746 920 / 8339 6760 Jen Watkins Aldgate, 0402 082 169 / 8339 7543 Kellie Clark (trainee) Clapham, 0407 112 799 Kirsten Forrester (trainee) Barossa, 0438 807 858 Julia Fry (trainee) Dulwich (Burnside), 0407724628

!a!Doula’s!passion!is!to! support!women!and!their! families!to!create!their!own!! memorable!and!unique! journey!through!! pregnancy,!labour!and!! parenthood!

Emma Kingsford-Smith (trainee) Adelaide (city), 0404 388 284 Angela Lambe (trainee) Morphett Vale, 0434 571 517 Bronni Simpson (trainee) Mitcham, 0402 423 103

“With a doula there, I could fully concentrate on my wife and be right by her side throughout labour. She did all the running around for us;”

Mark - Henley Beach