I just came across this wonderful essay written by a woman (who also happens to be a doctor) tell her experience of the birth of her first two children – the first without a doula and the second with one. Doulas do make a difference!
Monthly Archive for February, 2008
I feel very strongly that women are intelligent enough to make their own decisions about pregnancy and childbirth. In my doula practice I never judge a woman about her choices with regards to anesthesia, where she gives birth, who her care provider is or what interventions she chooses or doesn’t choose as part of her birth plan. Individually, I am a strong advocate of every woman I serve and realize that her choices are her own. Generally, though, the medical evidence does point to a less interventive form of care is actually the safest option, and this message is not reaching pregnant women today.
A group of local doulas, midwives, childbirth educators and birth & lactation professionals have come together to create a birth network. Birth Networks are popping up all over the country to advocate for the best care for pregnant, birthing and lactating women in their communities. The Mid-Columbia Birth Network gives local pregnant women resources and information to let them decide what is the best route for their care. Please visit our website today here.