How a Doula Supports a Mom with an Epidural

​It is a common misconception that doulas only work with parents planning an unmedicated birth. This could not be farther from the truth! For parents planning on using an epidural, a doula can still support the family is a number of ways...

1. Before the epidural is given. Most hospitals will not admit a woman until she is well into active labor with consistent contractions. This means contractions happening every 4 minutes, for 1 minute each, consistently for 1 hour, or about 4-5 cm along. Early labor can generally lasts hours or even days. Then once admitted, it can take about an hour or even longer before anesthesia is available to give the epidural. A doula can be a great tool for physical support prior to getting admitted into the hospital or the administration of the epidural. 
2. Positioning. An epidural can significantly lengthen labor, especially if they are given early on in labor, because they limit movement and work against gravity. They also reduce oxytocin production. To combat this, and reduce the risk of needing a cesarean, a doula can help position a mother who has had an epidural to keep labor moving. One of the best ways to do this is with the help of a peanut ball. The mother is moved to her side, with one leg straight, the other leg is placed on top of the peanut ball. The sides are switched every 30 minutes or so. This mimics a partial squat position and keeps the pelvis open. 
3. Relaxation. Even though an epidural will ease the pain of labor, it cannot help calm nerves or anxiety. A doula is a fantastic tool for staying relaxed and focused on an easy, happy birth.
4. Informational support. One main role of a doula is to provide informational support to parents during labor. Sometimes the doctors or nurses can come into the room using medical jargon that is hard to decipher. The doula is a great 'translator' during an instance like this. Your doula can put the medical terms in more understandable words so that the family can make informed decisions of the birth of their baby. A doula will also make sure your wishes and goals are being heard by the medical staff. While a doula should never speak for you, they will empower you to speak for yourself.
5. Support postpartum. After your baby is born, your doula can help facilitate skin-to-skin time, manage visitors and privacy, and assist with the first latch. If your birth doula also works as a postpartum doula, she can also help at home with sleeping, feeding, bonding, and even running errands or light housekeeping. 

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Are you considering adding a doula to your birth team? Set up a free, no pressure consultation with Sooner State Doula to learn more about your options.

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