Doula Services | Supported Birth of Arizona

Even the best nurses are limited by hospital protocol, other patients, time restraints, personal belief systems, and of course, they don't know you! A professional labor support companion (doula) is a woman trained to provide continuous emotional and physical support during active labor as needed:

massage, help with birthing positions, herbal remedies, antidepressants and means of natural induction, a calm and reassuring presence, advocacy for your wishes in the hospital setting, initial breast feeding guidance, and more. She does not have an "agenda" for your birth. She is there to accompany you on your journey, assisting in the unforeseeable ways that will best empower YOU as an individual and as a couple.

“Won't my husband feel he's not "enough" to help me through labor? Won't having another person there detract from our intimacy? What if she "takes over"?”

Throughout history women have always attended other women during birth. Now, husbands are expected to anticipate and fulfill their partner's intense needs through labor. Men may feel fear, fatigue, helplessness, confusion, hypertension, emotional upset, or intimidation. One father said "It was like I had been given a map (in class) of Laborland, but once (She) was there; I realized that I had never been there. The doula had been there - she knew the language and the way."

Studies show that couples feel an increase in intimacy when the pressure on the father is removed and he is free to experience the birth of his child. A good doula is sensitive and understands that her role is to empower rather than to take charge.

“How do the hospitals view this?”

Nurses are generally very grateful for the continuous support to laboring women that they no longer have the time or resources to offer. As long as they do not feel threatened or challenged, hospital staff is positive toward the added presence. Mutual respect is the key.

“What if I want pain medication?”

Supported Birth doulas are objective and non-judgmental about how labor unfolds, there to empower you to make conscious choices. This is your personal journey, and whatever you choose is right for you.

Supported Birth of Arizona.