What does virtual doula support look like?
Written by Heidi Kate
In the age of COVID-19, we are all adapting to a new reality. Pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum period are always challenging, but COVID-19 has upset plans and hopes for many families. With ever-changing hospital policies restricting in-person support, working with a doula is different than it used to be. What does it look like when your doula can’t be in the room with you?
You think you’re in labor, but you’re feeling a little bit confused... is this labor? Give your doula a call to check in. As contractions become more intense, you do your best to remember when the hospital tour guide told you to head to the hospital, but your memory runs a blank. Rely on virtual doula support! Your doula will be there over the phone or video chat to guide you through laboring at home and remind you when it’s time to leave for the hospital. Your partner’s nerves jangle in as the intensity kicks up a notch. Your doula is there to provide a nurturing, calming voice for you both, normalizing the process and suggesting coping techniques along the way.
You’ve decided it is time to go to the hospital -- now for that dreaded car ride. As soon as you take a seat, your surges skyrocket. You grasp your partner's arm in an attempt to ground yourself, but your driver needs to focus on the road. You call your doula, who talks you through breathing techniques to make the ride a little bit more manageable. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
After being admitted into the labor and delivery room, your labor seems to have slowed down a bit. Wondering why this is happening, you begin to get nervous about interventions that may be suggested by the medical staff. You call your doula and they discuss the pros and cons of the offered interventions to help you to make an informed choice.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
As labor picks up again, your partner doesn’t know what to do and is scared for your safety as they witness your long, strong contractions. You call your doula, and they help walk you through transition. They remind you that this means birth is close. They guide your partner through hands-on techniques to ease your discomfort and offer verbal encouragement to you both.
It’s time to push! Suddenly, your once quiet room is filled with people preparing to help welcome your little one. You’re overwhelmed, scared, and excited. Your doula is speaking in your ear, encouraging you and reminding you that you and your baby are safe.
Whether or not we can be together physically during this time, we are here for you. Your doula can still be a consistent presence for your family with virtual doula support. Your virtual #brilliantbirths doula will be with you as a calm, knowledgeable guide through it all.
