Definition from www. doula.org.uk
Doula” (pronounced “doola”) is a Greek word meaning “woman servant or caregiver”. It now refers to an experienced woman who offers emotional and practical support to a woman (or couple) before, during and after childbirth. A doula believes in “mothering the mother” – enabling a woman to have the most satisfying and empowered time that she can during pregnancy, birth and the early days as a new mum. This type of support also helps the whole family to relax and enjoy the experience.
Why a post-natal doula?
- Caesarean looks likely, so I won’t be very fit to do much for a while… I know this from last time’s emergency caesarian.
- Time for Leo… he’ll be 7 and at school, so those few hours in the afternoon will be precious time with him.
- Space to share with Aaron (husband)…it’s so easy to spill the days troubles on to him as soon as he walks in the door, but I’d rather spill them elsewhere a few times a week, so we can connect on a more loving level.
- A shower and hairwash… once in a while. And someone to help tidy the house before the in-laws come over!
- Having permission to ask for the help needed, and permission to be as I am…
Who did we want?
We interviewed a few. Aaron encouraged me to go with my gut.
It turned out I was looking for someone who could ‘hold’ those first weeks, who didn’t seem phased by the waves of emotion and change that follow a new person’s arrival.
She smiled a lot. She recognised the pitfalls of the early weeks without looking as though she spent much time down deep emotional holes digging her way out.
I felt she could ‘hold me’ so I could hold my family.
So we’ve booked her to come and help us out for a few hours a few times a week once the baby has arrived. I hope to learn from and enjoy her calm spirit. Very lucky we can do this second time around.
Wow!
