As a mother-to-be, it's natural to want the best childbirth experience possible. Most new mothers choose their obstetrician with care and may even tour the labor and delivery ward of the hospital they plan to use. Some will also hire a doula, or professional birth coach, to assist them both before and after labor.

Is a doula right for you? Here's what you should know about using a doula during your pregnancy and delivery.

1. You gain access to reliable information on pregnancy and childbirth.

Your time with your obstetrician is always limited and rushed, and the internet is a jumble of confusing and conflicting information. A doula can help you sort out fact from fiction and answer the questions you either don't have time to ask your obstetrician or don't feel comfortable asking. The intimate relationship you build with a doula as she provides you with emotional support during the pregnancy makes it easier to approach her with the nitty-gritty questions you may be hesitant to ask your doctor.

2. You have a liaison between you and the medical team during delivery.

During labor and delivery, the focus of the medical staff at modern hospitals tends to be largely on the baby that's about to be born. Mothers-to-be sometimes get lost in the process. When you're in labor, you may have trouble advocating for your needs among the rotating staff of nurses and attending physicians. Your doula can help you assert your needs and keep you from feeling lost in the birthing process.

3. Your spouse gets a labor and delivery partner that won't disappear.

Because a doula's focus is on the mother-to-be, this benefit of having her present during the labor process is often overlooked. Your spouse or partner naturally wants to be there to support you, but labor can be lengthy and emotionally exhausting for everyone. Doctors are in and out and nurses have other patients to manage. Having someone constantly in the room to help coach you through the difficult moments of your labor can reassure your spouse or partner that everything's going along just fine. 

4. You have post-birth support that's attentive and caring.

Post-birth, your doula can remain to support your needs, field visitors, help you with self-care, and guide you through all of the scary steps of handling a newborn for the first time. Your doula can also make certain that you're getting enough rest, eating enough to support your body's needs, and getting plenty of relaxed cuddle-time with your baby.

To find out more about how doula's work, contact doula program services in your area for additional information.