You have hired a doula and then, as happens with birth, things shifted, best-made plans, hopes, and wishes changed, and hard decisions had to be made. You ended up with an unplanned c-section. (This is where we pause and say Well done! You brought your baby into the world in the best and safest way possible! And also we want to hug you and mourn the loss of a dream with you if that is where you are at). Someone might unthoughtfully say “So much for having a doula…” This is where you can share with them why having a doula was still a great decision!

Let’s start from the beginning. Research shows that with doula care there are 39% fewer c-sections. That alone is amazing! But sometimes, a cesarean is still the best option for the baby and mom. And what a wonderful option that is! An experienced doula will know and see some of the signs before the doctor begins to talk to you, perhaps giving you and your partner time to think about and absorb the information and recommendations that might be coming. Your doula will be your witness then and in the moments to come, that you did all possible to achieve your desired outcome. She will hold space for the grief, fear, or disappointment you may feel and cheer for you when you and your partner decide how to move forward with your choice. Your doula will be there to validate all of your feelings and you may be feeling ALL of them at the same time!

AND your doula will be with you for the birth of your baby even in the operating room!

This is where we say- New Mexico is a great place to give birth! Your doula can be with you during your birth even in a c-section scenario. The birth experience is not just about the person giving birth, but their partner too. The operating room can feel like such a strict, sterile and scary place. Partners are there next to their loved one during the surgery and then, suddenly, they are asked to decide where to go. Do they stay with their partner or go with their new baby?! Most go with their newborn, to love and comfort them. This leaves the birthing person “alone” while the surgery continues. That can be difficult and stressful. Unable to see what is happening, not knowing what conversations are occurring around or about your baby, where is your baby, will you get to hold them? For some, the anesthesia used in a c-section makes them itchy, hot and cold, nauseated, and/or makes their body tremor and shake. That can be really uncomfortable! And what about the supporting partner? This is their birth experience too and it can be very overwhelming for them in that space without support and feeling torn, wanting to be in two places at once. Your doula is there to care for all of you! Once your baby is ready, your doula can help put your baby to the breast if you desire and certainly help with those first sweet skin-to-skin snuggles. Would you like music playing? Or those first precious photos? Your doula can take care of that too!

Whether you have an unexpected cesarean birth or perhaps a planned one for the myriad of reasons that you decide, request that your birth doula be present! Your doula is there for the whole family and for every birth!

Doulas and Cesareans

How to Keep Baby Cool This Summer