If you are a mother delivering by cesarean, you will need support just as much as any other mother. Your needs, and the needs of your family, will be unique. It’s my honor to be there for you. While every c-section is different, I aim to anticipate your needs as much as possible and help make your experience a positive one.
Here are some things I can do:
Be available to talk. Facing a planned c-section, particularly if you had hoped for a natural birth, can be en emotional time. I’ll be available by phone to help you work through those emotions, and give you referrals for support groups such as ICAN (the International Cesarean Awareness Network) and La Leche League.
Help you write up a birth plan.
Come along to a doctor’s visit with you in the weeks before. Some of your desires for your birth may take some time to arrange, and it’s good to get the ball rolling on those. Also, a doctor is more likely to allow a doula in the OR if they have met. Is a “natural” cesarean a possibility for you? Let’s explore that with with the doctor.
Reach out to the Labor and Delivery managers to see how we can work together to make your birth better, and to make sure you understand the protocols and restrictions they have.
Review medications they plan to use so you can understand how they may affect your experience and breastfeeding.
Help you research the particular medical conditions that have made your surgery necessary.
Right before surgery, I’ll try to make the atmosphere as calming as possible. I’ll aim to maintain a “bubble” around you and your partner in the midst of all the hustle and bustle. We’ll have a list of things you find calming ahead of time for me to be in charge of--essential oils, music, massage, prayer, etc.
I’ll make sure a copy of the birth plan goes to the OR with you and try to get everyone to read it.
Sit with your partner while you are being prepped and make sure his questions are answered.
If I am allowed in the OR, I’ll stay close, and if possible, continue with comfort measures and communicate to you what’s happening on the other side of the sheet. If possible, I’ll help you with skin-to-skin contact and advocate for you to keep the baby close.
When the baby is removed, I’ll remind Dad to go with the baby as I stay behind with you. The portion of the surgery after birth is the longest, and often scariest and loneliest.
I’ll be there to help you process what you’re going through, focus on the positives, and be at peace. I’ll try to keep track of what is going on with your husband and baby and keep you posted.
When you’re moved to recovery, I’ll stay with you and help you communicate with your nurses and advocate for you to get your baby in your arms as soon as possible.
I’ll help you breastfeed (HOORAY!)
If you need some quiet time with your husband and the baby, I’ll do my best to maintain your “bubble” of privacy and calm.
Your fee will include a massage. You can choose if you would like to have your massage before or after the birth.
I’ll meet with you in person at least once in the two weeks following your birth, and will be available by phone, to answer questions and talk.
I look forward to talking with you about how I can help you have a better planned cesarean. Give me a call!
--Maggie
(702) 241-4753