Giving birth to a baby is much more than a physical phenomenon; it engages parents-to-be in a transformational experience, a key life event full of emotion and meaning. Birth doulas hold a sacred space for both the woman and her partner during labour, offering encouragement, suggestions for movement, and increased comfort for the couple when necessary. Postpartum doulas create a more relaxed home environment allowing both mother and father to transition into their new parenthood roles with confi dence, hands- on guidance and breastfeeding support.
RIGHT DECISIONS FOR YOU IN CHILDBIRTH
During pregnancy and as you prepare for childbirth, you may be bombarded with information, advice and opinions. It seems that everyone - the media, your caregivers, your friends and family - has something to say about what is best. In addition to a deluge of opinions and birth stories that may infl uence you, there are decisions about testing, type of provider, place of birth, pain management, interventions, and newborn care. As both a certifi ed doula and Lamaze childbirth educator, I often emphasize the importance of informed choice when women and their families consider their options to make decisions during pregnancy and childbirth. But what does that mean, and why does it matter? How can you fi nd the information you need to make the decisions that feel right for your own unique experience?
Expecting a Baby? Chantelle
Bruins CD(DONA), PCD(DONA)
403.580.3335 403.581.9233
2
Siermachesky LCCE, CD(DONA),
CLD, CBC
403.504.1849 403.580.1040
Loree
Garratt CD(DONA)
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www.medicinehatdoula.com Abigail
An informed choice is a carefully considered decision, based on accurate information, an understanding of the various options available, the risks and benefi ts of each option and their possible results. Making an informed choice implies thorough education and clarifi cation of issues to allow you to confi dently decide what to do; or not do; in your own best interest and your unborn child’s. Your care providers have a responsibility to provide a full explanation of any procedure, medication, drug, test or other treatment that is being considered; however, the responsibility does not rest with them alone. You too have a responsibility to learn about your options and consider your choices.
Becoming informed enough to make a choice or confi dently “consent” or “refuse” takes time. It requires time to research on your own, time with your medical caregivers who can shed light on benefi ts and risks, time to understand research and statistics, as well as time to consider the physical, spiritual and philosophical values and goals that you hold dear. Initially this may seem daunting and stressful but the decisions you make are extremely important, as they may be birth or life-altering in unforeseen ways. Being educated about your options allows you to take responsibility for your and your baby’s health.
How can you prepare confi dently to make such decisions? This process is most useful when undertaken before labour—before you are in the somewhat delicate and necessarily vulnerable state when your body and mind are functioning in a primal physical and emotional state, rather than an analytical and intellectual one. I believe that one of the most proactive ways to feel confi dent about your decision-making is by nurturing a solid, trusting relationship with your medical provider. They should be open to your questions or concerns and be willing to explain their reasons for, and thoughts about, any tests, procedures or interventions they recommend—or not recommend. This information should be offered in a language that is clearly understood, so that you may make decisions voluntarily and without duress. If you feel that your caregiver appreciates and respects your need-to-know, your values, goals, and determination to be a full participant in decision-making, then you are off to a healthy start. However, if your questions are met with condescension, or you feel “brushed off” and are left out of decision-making, your ability to trust may be threatened. Hiring a doula may also help you advocate for yourself in situations where you or your partner may not be feeling confi dent.
MAKING THE
41073649•02/28/12
LOREE
SIERMACHESKY Special Deliveries Doula Services
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