subject: What Is A Seattle Doula And Who Should Have One [print this page] The word doula' is derived from ancient Greek and originally was translated as female servant' or woman who serves'. Today, a doula has come to mean a trained and experienced woman whose role is to provide support, both physical and emotional, to a pregnant woman. For an expectant mother, having a reliable doula can mean all the difference in the world. This article looks at how a Seattle doula can help you have a happy, healthy pregnancy and delivery.
Looking After Mom
Normally, we rarely find pregnant women with servants. Most of them take care of themselves during pregnancy or their husbands offer assistance. Some have nannies to look after their baby postpartum, which is especially common when both parents are working. But how about someone to look after mom during the period up to and including childbirth?
Non-Medical Care
A woman who is bearing a child is in a crucial health stage of her life, that's why she's advised to have regular prenatal check-ups. But no matter how a doctor manages to help medically, he can't be there to assist in all the non-medical challenges facing a woman getting ready to deliver. This emotional and physical support is best provided by another person who is trained in this particular form of care giving.
Someone To Lean On
A physically ill person can take medications or go to the doctor for medical treatment, but it's difficult to treat emotions. Women go through a multitude of emotions during pregnancy, including depression. It's important for pregnant women to have someone to lean on during this emotional time who can provide the necessary comfort and handle the many details involved in getting ready for the birth of a new life.
Husbands Need Help Too
Why not just let the husband take over these tasks? It's not hard for him because he doesn't suffer through any of the rigors of pregnancy, right? False. He may not show it as much physically, but husbands go through a lot during a pregnancy. He's worried about his wife and anxious about becoming a father. As the saying goes, you can't give what you don't have. How can a husband care for his wife's every need during pregnancy when he is also in need of comfort and support himself?
An experienced doula understands the physiology of the birth process and the emotional needs of a woman going through labor. She can handle small but necessary details such as making and attending appointments, but her main function is to provide emotional support. Having this type of assistance has been shown to be quite beneficial to both the expecting couple and the newborn.
If you're pregnant, consider getting the care and assistance you need by calling a Seattle doula today so you can enjoy each moment of your pregnancy and delivery.
