Unbiased Doula Support

What difference does unbiased support make?  Types of support a doula provides.  Why does support matter?  What difference can it make in birth experiences and outcomes?  

Definition of Unbiased:

    Unbiased, according to Oxford Languages online dictionary, means showing no prejudice for or against something; impartial. 

   Being unbiased takes practice and humility.  It is sometimes hard to identify our own biases.  As a Doula I need to constantly be watching my internal reactions to situations and especially clients, to ensure I am not judging or pressuring them because of my personal preferences or feelings.

    My goal is for my clients to feel 100% supported in every choice that they make for their birth and baby.  I never want them to feel like they have ”disappointed” me or anyone else, because it’s not OUR birth. It’s THEIR birth, and THEY should feel heard and supported no matter what happens in the process.

Definition of support:

     Support, according to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, has several applicable meanings when it comes to types of support a doula provides. There are a few that people know and expect such as: to promote the interests or cause of; to uphold or defend as valid or right; and assist.

    But there are a couple more that are also important: to keep from fainting, yielding, or losing courage (comfort); to hold up or serve as a foundation or prop for something or someone.

    These last two definitions of support are very important. Everyone should have someone or something that is that kind of support for them.

Types of Support:

    Doulas provide physical, emotional, and informational support to their clients.  What does that actually look like?  I’ll give some examples of what it could look like, but it will change with each individual client and their needs.

Physical labor doula support could look like:

• doing hip squeezes or counter pressure during a contraction

• getting water/ice chips and offering to client to help them stay hydrated during labor

• helping client with focus and vocalization during labor

• giving a hug or holding a hand and being silent when that is needed

Emotional labor doula support could look like:

• giving words of affirmation to the client

• giving feedback on how the client and partner are working together

• practicing active listening to help the client acknowledge feelings and desires

• holding space for client to grieve if client's plans for birth must change 

Informational labor doula support could look like:

• providing relevant and up to date information about local birth options and facilities as requested

• providing information for client and partner on how to advocate for themselves in labor

• providing childbirth education and researching aspects of birth the client is interested in or wants more information about

• helping client ask questions to get information about their options before, during and after labor

• providing relevant and up to date information about local postpartum resources and planning

So, if you have a good support system why would you need a doula?

    I'm sure if you're a pregnant person or new parent you know that while friends and family usually mean well, sometimes they don't understand or know your goals and desires for your birth and family, sometimes they don't have the relevant knowledge, and sometimes they really don't understand or remember the circumstance of this amazing time of life.  They just don't get it.

    Doulas are not just friendly support people, but should be knowledgeable or willing to learn and research your preferences on pregnancy, birth, and parenting. They should not only be able to help you see what you don’t know, but also help you find the answers to questions or provide resources and references for your further support.

    They should be unbiased and help you find what YOU desire for your birth, postpartum, or parenthood journey; then, support you in your choices along the way. You should never feel pressured by your doula to do or be anything.  It’s their job to provide you information when you ask, to ask clarifying questions to make sure they’re understanding YOUR ideas/desires, and be the place you can turn when things aren't going the way you hoped.

    Whether you choose cesarean, epidural, unmedicated, or anything in between, a doula can support your choices with understanding and have a desire to help in any way you need.

    Could you or someone you know benefit from this type of unbiased support?  Contact us!  We would love to support you!