What Does my Doula Do If I Get An Epidual?

The same thing she does if you don’t have an epidural!

Doulas are present to provide emotional, physical, and informational support, as well as advocacy. If you choose to have an epidural, I remain by your side the same as I would if you were laboring without one. There are always still questions to be answered for your and your partner, feelings to be shared and listened to, and support to be given while you bring your baby into the world.

Oftentimes, the climate of the birth room changes when an epidural is placed. Mom is typically more relaxed, will hopefully be able to rest, and we can plan and chat about how she wants to push when the time is right. Depending on the strength of the epidural, an additional set of experienced hands for helping with positioning and holding yourself in place is often a necessity, and I will be there to still coach and cheer for both you and your partner.

If mom has a chance to rest, I will usually encourage dad to nap too, and then I take my own advice and rest as best as I am able. This is also a good opportunity for partner and doula to tag team a bathroom break or a cafeteria run.

My attention and dedication to you do not change if you have an epidural. I am with you for the duration of your birth, until you are ready for me to leave.

Christine Rogers is a birth doula and childbirth educator in Alaska, serving Anchorage, Eagle River and the Mat-Su Valley. A mom of four, she works hard to ensure every client she serves has a positive and empowering birth experience. She can be reached online at www.drawneardoula.com, or emailed directly at drawneardoula@gmail.com.

Looking for more birth planning resources? Check out my free Birth Preferences Worksheet and free Guide to Choosing A Care Provider!