How Doulas are Helping Expectant Mothers During Covid-19

Doulas have been a staple in personalized, low-intervention birthing experiences for decades. Their assistance, guidance and support has helped countless women undergo the birthing experience they desire.

However, due to the Covid-19 virus, most states are not allowing doulas in the delivery rooms. Many expecting parents are choosing to have their doulas virtually attend the birth; therefore, still gaining the support and care that many expecting mothers need during that time.

Corie Adjmi, doula, women’s empowerment advocate and bestselling author of ‘Life and Other Shortcomings’, has witnessed the incredible benefits that doulas are able to provide expecting mothers during this high-stress time.

“Doulas encourage the birthing mother to advocate for themselves. They educate them so that they feel empowered throughout their own birth experience. With that information, a mother can make better choices and feel more confident throughout the process. We are really just there as emotional support, which many women do not have right now,” she says

“There are many short-term benefits to having doulas assist you in the birthing process. For example, the length of labor is reduced by 25%, cesareans are reduced by 26-50%, epidurals are reduced by 60%, and narcotics use is reduced by 30%.”

Corie states that, while the short-term benefits of having doulas during this process are important, the long-term benefits are monumental for both the mother and the child.

“Mothers see an increase in time spent with their baby and, even more notably, a decrease in postpartum depression. Women that choose to have doulas with them during their birthing experience are actually 27% less likely to feel dissatisfied with their births.”

“Covid has taken away so much for so many. That is why, now more than ever, it is crucial for women to be allowed access to the care and support they deserve and desire during their own birth experience.”