Yes, there’s a new baby in the world! I’m usually very quiet when it comes to sharing about my doula services because I want to ensure privacy for my clients. I’m not going to post details regarding a most recent birth that I attended, but about the health care team in general. This recent birth had all involved working as a team when their was a (much needed) cesarean delivery on the horizon. As a doula, I was invited to be part of this team and I’m grateful that the obstetrician from Cedar Sinai Medical Center acknowledged the relationship I had with my client and consented to my being in the operating room (OR). I know that Cedars doesn’t generally allow for such.
My question is WHY NOT?
When a doula is in the operating room it’s ”win-win” for all involved: 1) the mom, because she has continual emotional support to mitigate any anxiety 2) the health care team so that they can focus on the tasks that they have been skilled and trained to do, without worrying about any kind of emergent situation ensuing 3) the baby, who enters the world in a more peaceful way.
From their coaches that lend an encouraging word, to trainers stretching and nutritionists hydrating, athletes delivering babies shouldn’t miss out on the team approach to birthing, even win it comes to a cesarean birth. Generally, women do not want to feel alone at this critical juncture, and research shows that feelings of isolation can lead to problems with postpartum depression in mom, which ultimately sets up a disconnect in bonding with her baby.
My post today is a plea to all hospitals: please allow doulas in the operating room. As long as they are aware of their place in the team, the “winning run” can be scored; the “prize” is the baby. Let’s ALL be part of that home run.
