A question I get asked a lot is “I’m planning a c-section,
how can a doula help me? Why should I hire one?” There is a common misconception that Doulas
are only for women who are planning drug and intervention free births. I’m here
to break that stereotype, and to tell you that Doulas are for EVERY birth. A
Doula is meant to provide unbiased support and education, and to help her
client achieve their dream birth. This includes C-sections. The rate of
C-section birth in the U.S. is high, around 33%, which is 2x higher than the
WHO recommends. This means that on average, 1 in 3 babies in the United States
are born via C-section. Most of these are for emergent or medical reasons,
while some are elective (in cases of RCS, birth of multiples, etc). Regardless
of the reason for the C-section, it is a valid birth choice, and the birthing
mother should be able to feel confident and in control.
A Doula is a wonderful resource to use, even if you are
planning a cesarean birth. Many people don’t realize the benefits a Doula
brings to a C-section, whether planned or emergent. Yes, one of the main “bragging
points” of a Doula is that we reduce the risk of needing a C-section by about
30%. However, that fact doesn’t mean we become useless if a C-section is wanted
or needed.
 |
| I've made a handy chart here that highlights key benefits |
Before the Birth
Prior to your surgery, your Doula will provide you with any
information you desire. She will go over the pros and cons of elective Cesarean
surgery, various anesthesia options, the possibility of a “family” or “gentle”
C-section, the various stages of the surgery itself, and the recovery. Having an extra pair of eyes, ears, and hands never hurts when it comes to planning the birth of your baby. She will
make sure you are feeling confident and empowered in your choice to birth via
Cesarean. She will talk with you in depth about any fears you may have, and can
help you create a birth plan to cover your desires for your birth. Even if you
are planning a vaginal birth, it’s worth discussing the possibility of
C-section with your Doula, and creating a plan in the event of an emergency. Some Doulas may even be able to offer you access to a class that covers childbirth by C-section.
Upon arriving at the hospital, your Doula will be with you
during admissions and pre-op prep, and can help keep you calm. She can read to you, massage your feet, and keep the atmosphere of the room light. She can help you
stay relaxed during IV insertion, and will remain by your side for as long as
possible.
During the Birth
Some hospitals have a policy that only one support person is
allowed in the OR in the event of a Cesarean. Speak with your doctor prior to
delivery day about your desire to have your Doula present if possible. As an active and supportive member of your birth team, it is your Doula's desire to be with you if it is feasible.
If your Doula is able to be present in the OR, she will
explain any procedures as they happen. The doctors and nurses are focused on
their jobs- getting baby out and putting you back together. Your doula can
explain what’s happening. She will hold your hand and be an extra voice of
comfort and reassurance. She can snap a
few photos, especially of your brand new baby’s first few minutes of life. Those moments happen so quickly, and often memories of the surgery become blurred. A Doula will make sure you have details to remember this special day by. Typically,
baby will be born in the first few minutes of the C-section. The rest of the
hour-long procedure is the repair, during which time the baby is usually taken
out of the room. During this time, your Doula will stay by your side while your
partner accompanies baby to the recovery room to wait for you.
After the Birth
During the post-op time, things can be a bit fuzzy. As the
anesthesia from surgery wears off, there is often discomfort, and sometimes some side effects. Your Doula can
help you manage this discomfort, and can help get you up and moving. Walking is
a critical component to recovery after a C-section, and your Doula will help
you move. She can also help you to and from the restroom, and can help get you
into more comfortable clothes once you are moved out of the recovery room. She will be an extra pair of hands for you during this awkward phase of recovery. Your
Doula can help with initial breastfeeding attempts if you desire, and can
update your family and friends. She will often return to spend time with you in
the hospital during your stay there, and to help in your recovery. If you have hired her as a
Postpartum Doula as well, you can expect full support once you return home.
C-section recovery is lengthy and painful, and a Doula can help you manage and
accomplish everyday tasks.
A Doula can be useful in these ways in both planned and
emergency C-sections. It’s best to talk with your care provider about your
wishes for your birth, and for your desire for your Doula to be an active,
present member of your birth team. Your Doula is there to help you feel
validated and empowered, and to feel calm during the birth of your baby.
Cesarean birth IS birth, and a Doula can help.
No comments:
Post a Comment