Waiting until she was the exact same birth size as her older brother and sister, Ellyssa Belle came into this world with a very determined mother. A slight scare would not deter her from her birth plan, and luckily she was successfully able to deliver this little angel into this world without a cesarean. Thank you for letting me be with you as Ellyssa was born. Congratulations to this growing family, hopefully baby number 4 knows how to sleep for you!
There have been many studies done to show the link between a continuous support person and the rate of cesarean births. Studies show that not only do birth doulas lower the chance of cesarean birth, they also lower the rate of epidurals, forceps, vacuums, and other medical interventions. As a result, doulas can increase the immediacy of breastfeeding, and bonding for the family.
The advantage to having a doula, especially if this is your first child, is that the doula has been the support in labour before, and has been trained to support the couple in labour. (Keep in mind that every labour is different, and even if you are pregnant with your third child, you can still benefit from having a doula) Many times, the labouring woman and her partner are in the room alone, and unless the partner has read the books and remembered everything from the prenatal classes, they may be at a loss as to what to do. Doulas can suggest different possitions, can reassure the woman that she is doing a great job (and that the partner is doing well too), can get water for the woman so that she is never alone in the room, and so much more.
Alternative Strategy to Decrease Cesarean Section: Support by Doulas During Labor
Continuous Emotional Support During Labor in a US Hospital
To find a doula in your area, contact your local doula organization or DONA International for a list of certified doulas in your area. The local Victoria network for doulas can be found here.
Ever wanted to be fashionably late for something? Take note from little Harley, born 19 days overdue! He was much too comfortable in his litte hot tub and refused to come out until he was ready. New mom and new dad welcomed him with open arms and are overjoyed with his arrival, finally! Amazing strength, a lot of patience, and unyielding support brought this little guy into this world. I can’t wait to hear what the dog and the cats think of this new little being. Thank you for allowing me to share this great experience with you, and so many congratulations to the new family.
Making an appearance a few days early is the beautiful Laila Grace. She had a fast and speedy entry into the world, and she was very eager to take everything in and greet everyone. Strong, intense contractions were managed like a pro by a very strong mother and extremely supportive father. She was excitedly greeted by her older brother who showed her his toy bus and baseball. Great job and many congratulations to the family that has grown by one exquisite little girl! Thank you for allowing me to be there to support you and relish in the amazingness of your little angel.
Two of my best friends, and a wonderful couple, had a baby girl in January 2011. Their “whatever comes our way” attitude really helped them through their pregnancy and labour. I was honored to be there shortly after Charlotte was born and to have helped them in the postpartum period. Charlotte is thriving, and has two amazing, loving parents to take care of her every day!
Love you guys!
Melissa Harris Birth Services 