“Our doula Kerri really helped to prepare us for unknown. She assisted me during Kim’s labor with suggestions on how to be supportive to my wife.”
— Dan Strand
At the Mankato Clinic we’re here to work with you to make your birth experience a positive one. That’s why we offer Doula Services that provide mothers-to-be continuous labor support. In fact, researchers have found that women using labor assistants have shorter labors, fewer labor complications and greater satisfaction with their child’s birth.
We know that preparing for the birth of your baby can seem overwhelming. Today, parents are faced with more birthing choices than ever. Utilizing our doula services allows the birthing couple an easier transition from pregnancy to parenthood.
What is a Doula?
A doula, or birth assistant, is a professional labor support woman hired privately by parents offering emotional, physical, and practical support to women (or couples) before, during, and after childbirth.
Doula’s do not perform clinical tasks and are not physicians, midwives, or nurses. Instead, they assist the mother, working alongside doctors and nurses, to provide emotional and physical comfort measures.
What does a Doula do?
A doula provides emotional and physical support throughout labor, delivery, and postpartum. Their most important role is to provide you with nurturing, comfort, and reassurance.
Before childbirth
At the Mankato Clinic, we believe that the more you know, the more confident and relaxed you will be throughout your pregnancy. That’s why our doulas schedule at least one to two prenatal meetings to discuss a variety of issues before you go into labor including:
- Birth plan preparation
- Medical procedure explanations
- Exercise and physical suggestions to make your pregnancy more comfortable
During Labor
Whether you’ve been through labor before or not, it can still be overwhelming. The good news is there are many options when it comes to managing the discomfort of birth. To have a positive birth experience, most women need continuous labor support. Even if you have a wonderful, caring partner, doctor, or nurse, they cannot always guarantee the continuous support you need throughout your labor. With a doula continuously by your side throughout your labor, you will benefit from:
- Pain management through relaxation, breathing methods, and massage
- Positioning suggestions during labor and birth
- Advocacy, information, and emotional support for you and your partner
- A written record of your baby’s birth
After Childbirth
In a society, where too often new mother are rushed back into normal day-to-day activities, a doula offers practical and emotional support to the new family including:
- Breastfeeding assistance
- Postpartum support
- Encouragement and suggestions for new parents
What are the Benefits of using a Doula?
Studies’ have shown that attendance of a doula at birth may:
- Decrease epidural use
- Decrease the chance of Caesarean births
- Decrease the need for pain medication
- Shorten labor
- Help a father participate with confidence
- Increase success with breastfeeding
- Decrease postpartum depression
What’s the cost?
Our doulas are certified by the Doulas of North America. The fee includes prenatal visits, continuous presence at labor and delivery, a follow-up visit, and birth story. For more information regarding fees and availability, contact the OB Education department at 507-389-8573.
For additional information or to schedule an appointment call
507-625-1811 or 1-800-657-6944