Doula Support
Birth Doula Support
A doula is someone trained to support a woman through labor. The goal of a doula is to help women and their families achieve the childbirth experiences they envision. According to DONA International (a doula organization) doulas are trained, experienced professionals who provide continuous emotional, physical, and informational support to mothers before, during, and after childbirth. Doulas view their role as nurturing and protecting a woman’s memory of the birth experience.
The word “doula” is of Greek origin, and the profession has a longstanding history. Before the field of obstetrics was established, it was common for a doula to provide continuous support to a woman during labor. That person also assisted the mother after delivery as she bonded with her baby and recovered from delivery. Bairbre has been supporting families in the west of Ireland for over 10 years and has a wealth of knowlege about supporting women when they need it most. Its about providing support and encouragement so that the bithing woman can access the power she has within herself.
Studies have shown that having a doula as part of the birth team decreases;
1. The overall cesarean rate
2. The length of labour
3. The use of oxytocin to speed up labour
4. The request for an epidural
If you would like to know more about the role of a doula and how you can get support get in touch for a coffee chat.
Post Partum Support
Having adequate in-home support during the six-week ‘postpartum’ period is hugely beneficial. The new mother can easily feel overwhelmed as she recovers from the birth and takes care of her baby’s needs. As distinct from a ‘baby nurse’, a postpartum doula cares primarily for the mother and offers up-to-date information on baby care. Bairbre visits for a few hours every day allowing the new mother to rest, establish breastfeeding and focus on bonding with her baby. Services may include household chores, errands and meal preparation. Women recovering from cesareans, bringing home premature babies or twins find postpartum doula care invaluable. With doula support, mothers quickly become confident in caring for their newborn. Breast milk is the perfect food for babies. Most women enjoy breastfeeding once they get the hang of it and Bairbre is on-hand to help with any challenges getting started
Hourly rate €20 Minimum 3 hours
Over Night rate €30 per hour Minimum 6 hours
_j.jpg)
Antepartum Support
Support during Pregnancy
All pregnancies are not created equal. Most women will sail through pregnancy without many issues but for some women
there can be some symptoms of normal pregnancy that can lead to bedrest and may necessitate extra support for a period of time.
Some of these issues that can lead to required bedrest can include:
-
Unexplained Bleeding
-
Hyperemesis Gravidarum
-
Hypertension
-
Preeclampsia
-
Twins, Triplets, or More (Multiples)
-
Incompetent Cervix
-
Placenta abruption, previa or accreta
-
Premature rupture of membranes
-
Low amniotic fluid
_j.jpg)
Having to endure a pregnancy-related complication can incur a number of stressors for both the birthing person and their partner. Complications such as these can be difficult for a couple to manage and a doula can offer compassionate practical, physical, emotional and educational support to help you get through these complicated times. The support I offer can include assistance with daily household tasks, help caring for your other children, meal planning and meal preparation, and assistance with laundry and light cleaning. Supporting you when you need it most.