What is a Doula/PNSW and Why Hire one?

Doulas/PNSW's can offer guidance, insight and support during labor and delivery in a calm and nurturing way. Doula is a Greek term meaning "woman who serves," and it has been used to describe the women who serve birthing mothers. It is normal to have apprehension and many questions/concerns when going through pregnancy, childbirth and postnatal stages... it is really fantastic that there are resources available to see you through the process!

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Pre-birth appointments provide you with an opportunity to talk about your fears and hopes as you prepare for delivery. Postnatal appointments often include a debrief about how things went for you and address any of the concerns you may have caring for your newborn. For those with previous birth trauma or a pregnancy complication, it can be really beneficial to have a non-medical professional and a non-family member with you during your birth. A doula/PNSW can provide birth support and a listening ear without having to make clinical decisions, and without the emotional difficulties a family member may experience from your previous birth experience. A doula/PNSW will also provide emotional encouragement, explanations and support to your partner and family members if they are there with you. To read more 

A doula/PNSW supports the birthing parents in all the stages of labour. That means for all of those hours of “pre labour” you would have someone continuously with you, explaining things, telling you this is normal, and offering positioning suggestions to help baby move down and offer reassurance that will help keep you calm and focused . A birth doula/PNSW is equally knowledgeable as your doctors and nurses about what’s happening and what you are feeling; and are with you every second during labor and delivery. She keeps the love high and the fear low, so when it is time for your doctor or midwife to arrive you are feeling empowered… not full of fear and exhaustion.
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Childbirth is a very special time in a women’s life. But let’s be honest, it can also be a scary and overwhelming time from both a physical and emotional perspective. Having the right support system during pregnancy, postpartum and throughout your parenting journey can help families thrive through vs. survive through even the most challenging times.
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Thanks to Wonderwear Modern Diaper Service for this guest blog