Doulas And Epidurals

There are so many reasons that people choose to have an epidural. The biggest benefit of the epidural is, of course, the very effective pain relief that an epidural can provide. However, the course of a birth plan can change quite a bit following the administration of an epidural. Some people think that doulas and epidurals are synonymous- but this misconception could not be further from the truth. A doula can effectively continue to support a client through their labor and birth process following an epidural. Read on to find out how.

1. Assisting with Positioning

You aren't able to walk after an epidural, but this doesn't mean that you can't utilize different laboring positions. its important to remember that you are still in labor with an epidural, even though you can't feel it! One of the most important skills that a doula brings to the table is knowledge of positioning. Your doula can make recommendations for positions that will help bring the baby down and keep your body open. Like the throne position in the hospital bed or utilizing peanut balls. A peanut ball is an awesome tool that can be magic for epidural clients. Something that many people don't know is that there are multiple laboring positions that require a peanut bal asidenfrom justnputting it between the legs!

2. Coaching Through Pushing

Pushing looks different with epidural births than with an unmedicated birth. Epidural clients need to be coached through pushing versus unmedicated clients who largely follow their bodies own urge to push. Luckily, doulas are excellent coaches! One of my favorite aspects of my job is providing encouragement and words of affirmation to clients. Having a doula to assist with the pushing stage can also be a huge relief for partners.

3. Facilitating Skin-to-Skin

Immediate skin-to-skin contact following any type of birth is so important! However, sometimes babies are born a little drowsy following an epidural. A doula can put a mom's mind at ease and provide her with suggestions to facilitate latching despite possible side effects.

Is an epidural a part of your birth plan? We'd love to chat with you about how we've successfully supported our epidural clients! Feel free to reach out with any questions you may have about epidurals.