[Epidurals] 5 Ways a Doula Can Help
Part 2 of 4 in the mini series “5 Ways a Doula Can Help”
Thinking about pain relief options for labor?
Many people choose to have an epidural while laboring. It is a decision that can provide pain relief, much-needed rest, and comfort. If you think you may opt for an epidural, you may be wondering if a doula is right for you. While the assumption is that doulas are only present in unmedicated births or home births, doulas can also help in hospital settings and during medicated births! If you had planned on going the medication-free route and already have a doula, you may think you can’t change your mind. News flash! Your doula works for you and should support you– judgment-free – no matter your choices!
You may be wondering: What is an epidural?
An epidural is a common medical procedure used during childbirth to provide pain relief to the laboring individual. It involves the administration of anesthesia into the epidural space of the spine, which temporarily numbs the lower half of the body, including the abdominal and pelvic areas. This numbness effectively reduces or eliminates the sensation of pain during labor and delivery. Epidurals are administered by trained anesthesiologists and are typically chosen by expectant parents to help cope with labor while allowing them to remain awake and alert during the birthing process.
If I opt for an epidural, How can a doula still support me?
EMOTIONAL SUPPORT
While epidurals can alleviate physical pain, they don't address the emotional aspects of childbirth. Having a doula by your side can help you navigate all the feelings that can come up during your labor whether it's “Am I gonna poop??” or “Am I really ready to have this baby?” Having a continuous source of emotional support, encouragement and reassurance will help keep a calm atmosphere that is conducive to a productive labor.
INFORMATIONAL SUPPORT
Doulas are knowledgeable about various birthing options and procedures, including epidurals. Explaining the process, potential side effects, and what to expect can help you make informed decisions. With a familiarity of the different stages of birth, doulas can help explain the progression of your labor and what to expect next. This information is vital to empowering you to work with your body even when the sensations of labor are reduced by the epidural.
PHYSICAL SUPPORT
Do you know what isn’t easy when you have an epidural? Moving around! With your legs feeling heavy and numb, just trying to turn to your other side can be difficult. A doula will be more than happy to help you get on that much preferred left side (if you know, you know). Want a peanut ball but can’t lift your leg high enough? The doula’s got you no matter how many times you want or need to be moved!
COMFORT & PARTNER SUPPORT
Just like a doula will move you to keep things progressing, a doula will also help you stay comfortable while you have your epidural. A doula can also provide gentle massage, counterpressure, and relaxation techniques to ease any discomfort you may still feel. Your partner or birthing companion may feel uncertain about their role when an epidural is in place. Doulas guide partners in offering meaningful support, suggesting ways to connect with you, and keeping the birth environment positive and empowering for everyone involved. This ensures that your partner feels engaged and helpful during the birth process and that you feel fully supported.
PUSHING STAGE
During the pushing stage, which is the final part of your labor, it is common for the process to become instinctual. Pushing times can vary in length and intensity. If you have an epidural, it may be challenging to determine when it is time to push. This can lead to ineffective pushing, which can cause tearing, tiredness, swelling in the cervix, and stress for the baby. Doulas can provide useful assistance during this time! By guiding you through pushing, and helping you assume more comfortable and effective positions, your doula helps to ensure that your pushing phase is productive.
Your birth is YOURS, make the best choices for yourself!
In short, while an epidural can provide significant pain relief during labor, a doula's support remains invaluable. They offer emotional guidance, education, physical comfort measures, advocacy, and enhanced partner involvement. A doula's presence ensures that you have the best possible birthing experience, aligning with your preferences and needs, even when medical interventions are part of the journey. Whether you choose an epidural or not, know that a doula's unwavering support can make your birthing experience as positive and empowering as possible.
