Shorten Labor and Decrease Childbirth Pain with Constant Labor Support

Many of the recent medical studies done on the benefits of having a labor doula present during the childbirth experience, are revealing that the presence of a constant, supportive person during labor has tremendous benefits. The laboring women report fewer medical interventions, a more positive birth experience, and less postpartum depression triggered by dissatisfaction with the birth.

How Can an Expectant Woman Get The Support She Needs

It can feel difficult for pregnant women to find a good support person sometimes but local communities are expanding their birth offerings more and more. Local doula support can be an invaluable tool for a pregnant mom to get one-on-one time beyond what many physicians are able to give. Birth centers, doula training organizations or an OB's office should be able to provide information about local doula and childbirth educators in your area.

Alternatively, a mother may prefer to have a personal friend or family member as her support person, even though this person may not have formal training in labor support techniques. There are many resources, such as The Birth Partner book by Penny Simkin, which will provide quality information for a labor support or "coach" as some classes call the support people.

Checking With Your Health Care Professional About Labor Support During Childbirth and Delivery

Some hospitals still have restrictive rules about the number of people that are able to be present during childbirth, labor and delivery. A pregnant woman will want to be sure to ask her doctor or midwife during the initial interview if having extra labor support is allowed. For some women, lack of labor support is a deal-breaker and may cause her to seek another doctor or birthing alternative.

Ultimately, a woman can help increase the chances of a favorable birth outcome by taking a proactive role during her pregnancy. Once she understands the benefits of massage, support and other encouragements during labor, most women chose to have a support person present.