It’s common for me to encounter a person here in central Nebraska who was never heard of a doula. And after vaguely explaining what a doula does, more questions typically follow. Sometimes people think doulas only provide support for women delivering their babies at home. However this isn’t the case.
Yes, sometimes doulas do attend home births. I understand that the hospital may not be the first choice for many birthing women. But often, doulas are supporting families who choose to deliver their baby in a birth center or hospital setting, as this is where the vast majority of women are giving birth.
When I first became a doula nearly four years ago, I as business owner had to make the decision of whether or not I would attend home births. It was not a decision I made lightly.
I fully believe women are strong, intelligent individuals, capable of making important decisions.
That being said, there are laws in place that might influence a woman’s decision about where to deliver her baby.
Not only that, but all of the well-known doula organizations have policies in place that forbid their members from attending unassisted births.
For Nebraskans desiring a birth at home, they are left with few options. Delivering without a certified birth professional is an option many women are feeling forced to choose. That means giving birth without anyone qualified to tend to any emergency that may arise.
For these reasons, I (as well as every doula associated with Central Nebraska Doula) WILL NOT willingly attend an unassisted birth. As the person in the room with the most knowledge of the birth process it is not a liability I am willing to accept, as no waiver would protect a doula, even if she or he did nothing out of a doula’s typical role.
It is my desire to see the role of the doula elevated. Being a doula and providing unbiased, non-judgmental support to my clients is a high quality service that my clients greatly appreciate. Being a doula is my career. My profession. As a professional, proper training and certification are a priority to myself, my clients, and all of the medical care providers I encounter.
When I enter a hospital, I am greeted by staff that feel reassured that a professional doula is accompanying their patient. There is a mutual respect.
I have seen my clients be completely happy with their experience in the hospital. I have seen doctors and nurses be respectful of women’s wishes surrounding natural births. Many local hospitals attempt to let families bond with their new baby and delay routine procedures for at least the first hour. For women and families desiring a birth with little to no medical intervention, it may be possible.
Central Nebraska Doula is happy to support families who prefer to bring their baby into the world without the use of pain medication or labor augmenting drugs. Central Nebraska Doula is also happy to serve clients who prefer to use these interventions, as well as clients delivering via cesarean. Our care is completely customizable based on each family’s unique needs.