Massage Doula
- what is a Doula?
Doula Uk is the main accreditation and professional body for doulas working in the UK. It provides recognition status to doulas who have recieved appropriate training and supervision and have who have reached their standards. All Doula UK members are obliged to comply with and follow, the Doula UK code of conduct and ethics. Louise Prince is recognised birth doula by Doula UK.
What does ‘Doula’ mean?
‘Doula’ is an ancient Greek word and directly translated mean ‘mother’s slave’ As Doula’s we are "A woman who provides continuous physical, emotional and informational support for a woman before, during and immediately after childbirth."
What does a Birth Doula do?
Your Birth Doula will provide information about pregnancy and birth and (depending on how many antenatal visits you have) will help with breathing, relaxation, massage, positional advice and much more.
Your Doula will join you when you are in labour and stay with you throughout your labour with your birth partners, encouraging, suggesting and supporting you both through your labour and birth.
Your Doula will stay with you after the birth until you are settled. 5-10 days after birth she will visit you at home.
Benefits of a Birth Doula for Mum-to-be
Fear of the unknown may affect a woman’s confidence about labour, but with a Doula’s support and practised labour techniques you will feel empowered, self confident and will trust your own ability.
When in labour you may feel you must perform in a certain way in front of your mother-in-law, sister, friend or partner, but you can be completely at ease with your Doula.
Doula’s are trained when and how to use pain relief techniques like baths and showers, positional changes, heat and cold packs, massage, reflexology, birthing balls, walking and climbing stairs. I hold your hand when you need it, whisper encouragement when you need it and am quiet when needed to be.
Constant emotional support to both you and your birth partner to enable you to have an intimate birthing experience including praise, reassurance and encouragement.
Planned a medical birth or Caesarean?
If you plan to have a medicated birth, you can still employ a Doula. Doulas are available to enable you to have an enjoyable experience with comfort and control throughout.
Studies in America have shown that with a Doula’s support can be decreased significantly…
Caesarean delivery
Forceps delivery
Epidurals
Induction
Length of labour
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