All about doulas
Shifrah UK connects you with a network of experienced Jewish doulas, ready to provide invaluable support during pregnancy, birth, and the postnatal period. Curious about what a doula can do for you? Keep reading to discover more.
A doula is someone independent of the healthcare system who can support you and your family informationally, practically, emotionally and physically during your pregnancy, birth and postnatal period. Navigating the wealth of information available in our modern world can be daunting, whether you are a first time parent or have children already. A doula can help you really understand your choices so you can decide on what is best for you and your family.
Doulas support women and birthing people in the full spectrum of birth options. There is no ‘one size fits all’ with birth, and every woman will have her own set of unique preferences and needs. A doula is there to support you with whatever birth you plan to have and help you to have a positive experience.
A doula will typically meet with you 2-3 times during your pregnancy, and be on call to attend your birth. She’ll also offer phone/text support to help you navigate the maternity system, your birth choices, help you plan and prepare for birth and parenthood and offer ongoing reassurance and emotional support. Doulas will sometimes offer additional in person support if required, such as to accompany to antenatal appointments.
Doulas vary in background, experience and skills and often have additional training and expertise in areas such as massage, yoga, hypnobirthing, aromatherapy, trauma resolution, biomechanics and nutrition.
Doula FAQ
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No, doulas are not clinically trained and do not replace midwives or doctors. A doula can however form part of your team during your pregnancy journey and birth process, and support you by providing a level of continuity that isn’t always possible in the UK maternity setting; she can be there throughout your labour, providing continuous support and a known, friendly face. A doula will understand your wishes for your birth because she will have supported you throughout your pregnancy.
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A doula does not replace the loving support of a partner, friend or family member. Where other birth partners are present, a doula will be on hand to guide them, where necessary, on how to support you both emotionally and physically. She can also ensure that your birth partner gets respite where needed, help with practical tasks such as getting drinks and snacks and carrying bags - essentially being an extra pair of hands so that you receive continuous care and feel fully safe, secure and supported.
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A postnatal doula will ‘mother the mother’ in the weeks or months following birth. Having a doula support you in those early days as a new or extended family can be extremely helpful.
An extra pair of hands to hold the baby while you rest or tend to to other children; someone to listen to you and help you learn the ways of your baby; someone to support you with feeding your baby and being by your side for trips out or appointments.
Many doulas offer food preparation as part of their packages, ensuring you get freshly prepared, nutritious meals and snacks to support your healing. This is a flexible role and will be guided by the needs of your family.
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Head over to Find a Jewish Birth Worker to access our directory of Jewish birth workers, including experienced doulas.
There are also various doula directories available on:
https://doula.org.uk/find-a-doula/
https://www.thedouladirectory.com/https://developingdoulas.co.uk/doula-directory/
When contacting a doula, you’ll usually be offered an initial phone/video call or meeting to assess whether you are a good fit, and discuss how the doula will support you and your family. It’s a good idea to chat to a few doulas and consider who you feel a connection with. The ‘right’ doula for you isn’t necessarily the one with the most experience. It’s important to ensure you feel safe, comfortable and have a good rapport with your doula, in order to get the most out of the relationship.