World Doula Week
Holding Space
World Doula Week 2021 has a different feel
2020 was an odd year for birth. Mothers were forced into isolation, separated from their supports and forced to fight for support at a time where fear appeared on almost every media platform. But a funny thing happened – in the face of these circumstances – Homebirths THRIVED!
The last 18 months have seen an increase in homebirths and in the need for Doulas! This is part of why I was so excited to be training more incredible Doulas this last weekend!
These days birth seems to be feared by so many health professionals. Often the focus is on all the things that can go wrong or could go wrong. There are tests on tests on scans on tests.
Women have been having babies for millions of years! And for the most part without medical intervention. Yes there are the times when things don’t go to plan but lets not focus all our attention on this, rather we should be supporting our mothers to have empowered and supported pregnancies and births.
The birth of a baby is not just a birth, it is the transition to womanhood for the mum, it is such a pivotal point in a females life and it should be carefully planned and supported. This is where the support of a Doula really comes into play.
Every woman is going to have their on comfort zone for what tests, scans and appointments they need to feel comfortable with their pregnancy and the health of their baby. A doula can hep you navigate this complex system to talk you through what each test is looking for and what the outcomes can mean.
For example many women go along to their 12 week scan without even knowing what the purpose is of that scan. The 12 week scan is the Nuchal Translucency Scan, which is also followed up with a blood test. Both of these tests are looking for the probability of having a baby with Downs Syndrome. So for some, this is a welcome scan to see their baby and they are not bothered by the outcome, for others they have decided that if they were to be carrying a baby with Downs then they would terminate the pregnancy. There is no right or wrong, but often women are not even aware that this scan’s sole purpose is to see if the baby has Downs.
As a doula it is my job to hold space for the Mum and to support the Dad to achieve a birth that they are proud of! A birth that empowers them and aligns with their values. This does not always mean we get exactly what we set out for in the beginning, as sometimes the plan has to change, but at all times the Mum and Dad are informed and empowered to take the time to make decisions that work for them.
There is nothing to fear in birth, the body has such an amazing intricate hormone system that supports the body to birth with ease. Then main job of the Mum is to manage her thoughts and not let them get away from her. This can be easily mastered with some preparations and practice before birth.
I really hope that all women that are pregnant take the time to find a doula to support them on their journey.
