“I love doulas but I am getting an epidural.”
I can’t even tell you how many times I have had someone tell me that they think what I am doing is really neat but they got an epidural or are planning to get an epidural so they don’t see what good a doula would do them.Probably the most common doula misconception I encounter is that doulas and epidurals don’t go together. Sometimes I just want to shout to the world, “Doulas aren’t only for unmedicated births!”
I get it. I really do. A large percent of doula clients are probably people planning to avoid pain medication and one of the things we are skilled at is naturally relieving labor discomfort so we have kind of gotten the reputation for attending unmedicated births. That being said, there is so much more to what we do that natural pain relief techniques.
So, just what can a doula do for you if you are getting an epidural?
Prior to labor, your doula will be available 24 hours a day to answer any questions you have. She is trained to recognize if you are experiencing normal pregnancy or if its a good time to check in with your provider. She can explain other birth options for
your birth plan. There are many more decisions to make in addition to pain management. Also, if you are interested in making plans for after baby is born, doulas are a wealth of information.
Your doula will likely join you at your home until you are ready to leave for the hospital. During this time she will assist you with comfort techniques. Even if you are opting for an epidural, most women don’t receive one as soon as they go into labor. There’s some work to do before you get there. You can also expect tips on encouraging labor progress during this time. She will also give self care reminders such as staying hydrated and eating perfect labor snacks. She can double check that you have everything you and your birth support (significant other, family, friends, whoever you are inviting to join you during labor)
will need during your hospital stay. She is even able to help you decide when the time is right to head to the hospital, depending on your goals.
Once you arrive at the hospital, she will help you get settled into your room and may continue with comfort measures while you wait for your epidural. Also, on occasion, family birth support does not want to be present during epidural placement. Your doula won’t mind being there during that time at all.
My epidural is in, so now what?
Your epidural is placed. That’s great! Your doula’s role will now become very versatile depending on what you need.
Do you need rest? If so, your room will become the epitome of calm. You may notice that the lights have been dimmed, maybe some LED candles have appeared around the room. A warm blanket will be pulled around your shoulders. The blinds are pulled. The room is quiet. Maybe your favorite relaxation music fills the room. You are now able to cozy into your bed and get some much needed shut eye storing up energy you will need later or recovering energy lost so far.
Do you need to speed up your progress? If this is the case, there will be suggestions for positions and position changes to keep things going or even speed things up.
Your partner needs a break? With your doula’s presence, your partner can take a quick break or even a nap completely guilt free. Your doula will ensure that you are supported 100% of the time, allowing your partner to take the self care measures they need to remain fresh for your entire birth.
It is really important to some that they are able to push off their back. This can be difficult to achieve with an epidural but when you have a doula and an epidural, it can totally be accomplished. Our doulas are experienced with epidurals and have plenty of epidural pushing suggestions up their sleeve.
So, when the question is, “Doulas and Epidurals?”
Our answer is a resounding YES!
One last thing. Is there ever a time when having a doula at your birth is a bad idea? The answer is still yes. Its a bad idea to have a doula at your birth, if you don’t want one there. That’s the only reason that is currently coming to mind.
If you think one of our doulas could be a good fit for your birth call 509-370-6058 or contact us here, to schedule a no cost consultation. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to see our current specials and upcoming events!
Up next: Spokane Doula Services Mythbusters: Doulas and Dads
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