World Doula Week
World Doula Week is March 22-28th, 2022, so today we’re wrapping up. You may have noticed a lot of doulas and birth workers posting about it, but perhaps you don’t know what it is. The goal of World Doula Week is to showcase the impact that birth and postpartum doulas have on the social, physiological, emotional, and psychological health of women, newborns and families in the postpartum period.
Doulas are non-medical professionals who provide informational, educational and physical support during pregnancy, labor, birth, and the first 12 weeks of the postpartum period. The first 12 weeks are also known as the 4th trimester.
Having a baby is one of life’s biggest transitions and greatest joys. However, many parents find themselves feeling extremely isolated and overwhelmed during pregnancy and the postpartum period after the initial excitement has subsided.
Hiring a doula can help reverse those feelings and provide the support that new families need, and instead have a pregnancy and postpartum period that is filled with feelings of contentment and empowerment.
In honor of World Doula Week, here are the top 4 benefits of hiring a doula:
Non-judgmental support - a doula does not come in with a specific birthing plan or parenting style. Doulas do not push specific ways of doing things. A doula is there to help you come up with your own birth plan and parenting style. They’ll help you figure out what feels right for your family. Doulas are also expert listeners who have no baggage or family history with you.
More enjoyable maternity leave – doulas help ease the transition for new parents. Having a baby is a major life change! Doulas are there to calmly support you through the shift and help you focus on enjoying it, rather than muddling through it alone.
Expert advice – your doula can share what works for other families, and other ideas and tips based on their training and experience. It’s so wonderful to have your questions answered as you go instead of relying on Google.
Decreased risk of postpartum depression & anxiety – research has shown that new mothers who feel supported tend to report less problems with postpartum mental health.
Aunt Sarah Doula
Sarah helps families throughout Northeast Ohio by providing birth and postpartum doula support. Contact her today to learn more. auntsarahdoula@gmail.com