"Mothering the Mother," by authors Marshall Klaus, M.D., John Kennell, M.D. and Phyllis Klaus, M Ed, CSW

No one would argue that providing babies with a healthy start in life is crucial to the overall health of society. But all too often we forget that a healthy start for the baby starts with a positive birth experience for the baby's mother as well as the baby, a process that sets the tone for the mother-child relationship from that day forward. In the last few decades mountains of evidence have accumulated that document the profound effects that emotions such as anxiety and fear, and their opposite, calmness and serenity can have on the neurological, hormonal and immune system functions that control such things as heart rate, blood pressure, placental blood flow, and efficiency of uterine contractions. It is clear that how we are born sets up patterns that may have lifelong implications for our state of health and our human potential. In the twentieth century , we have witnessed vast improvements in the safety of childbirth, and now efforts to improve psychosocial outcomes are receiving greater attention.

The importance of fostering relationships between parents and infants cannot be overemphasized. The quality of emotional care received by the mother during labor, birth, and immediately afterwards is one vital factor that can strengthen or weaken the emotional ties between mother and child. Furthermore, when women receive continuous emotional support and physical comfort throughout childbirth, their obstetric outcomes may improve Women have complex needs during childbirth. In addition to the safety of modern obstetrical care, and the love and companionship provided by their partners, women need consistent, continuous reassurance, comfort, encouragement and respect. They need individualized care based on their circumstances and preferences. The role of the doula encompasses the non-clinical aspects of care during childbirth. "Doula" refers to a supportive companion (other than a friend or loved one) who is professionally trained to provide labor support. She performs no clinical tasks. "Doula" also refers to lay women who are trained or experienced in providing postpartum care. A doula…

- Recognizes that your birth experience is an important event that you will remember all of your life.

- Understands the many choices you have and can help you write a birth plan or a list of your preferences in giving birth and welcoming your baby.

- Provides emotional support for you before, during, and after your labor and birth.

- Provides or suggests physical comfort measures that your partner can give during labor and birth, such as back rubs, breathing patterns, and position changes.

- Gives you an objective view of your labor. A doula has the experience of many labors and can help you understand how your labor is progressing.

- Knows what to do during long or difficult labors. She can give many suggestions that help you cope and help your labor progress,

- Communicates with your birth partner. She helps him or her understand the labor process and can give him or her many suggestions on how to give support during labor and birth.

- Helps you and your partner communicate with your caregivers.

- Helps you and your partner get off to a great start as new parents.

- Gives you one-on-one attention. Her total role is to "be there for you" and help you have the best possible birthing experience.

A post-partum doula….

- Offers support in the early weeks of parenting

- Mother and newborn care

- Breastfeeding support and advice

- Light Meal Preparation

- Laundry

- Childcare

- Runs errands

- Provides light cleaning