Do you need someone to help you during childbirth? (Continuous Support During Childbirth) Let's be aware of this!

The day of your baby's birth is approaching, isn't it? The biggest question on your mind at this time is, 'Who will be there to support me during the birth of my baby?' This is a very important decision. We are talking about someone who will provide you with continuous support from the moment you start labor until the baby is born, and sometimes even after. This can make a huge difference in your birth experience.

Who can be chosen for support?

Actually, you can give this support to anyone you like. But before making a decision, it's important to think about your own needs and preferences. See who you can choose.

1. Your Partner

Often, an expectant mother chooses her husband. He may not have medical knowledge or experience in childbirth. But as someone who knows your heart well , he can give you great emotional support. He can comfort you and make you feel better when you are in pain.

2. A Close Family Member

Having someone close to you, like your mother, sister, or brother, is also a great strength. Especially if that person has had experience having a child before, they can help you with that knowledge. This is very common in our country.

3. A Close Friend

Your best friend is also a great source of mental strength. Like family, if they have experience with childbirth, that's an added advantage.

4. A Midwife

Some women choose to have a midwife or professional birth attendant instead of a doctor. Sometimes, both are available. This midwife will usually visit you throughout your pregnancy and will check on your pregnancy progress.

Even if your doctor isn't with you throughout your labor, a midwife can be with you throughout the process. While providing emotional support, she can also check your and your baby's vitals to make sure everything is going well. She can also intervene if there are any medical issues.

5. A Doula

The word ``Doula'' is a bit new to us. But they are people who are trained for this very job. Think of it this way. A doula is someone who does not provide medical assistance , but who supports you mentally and physically throughout the birth, helping you to make things happen according to your wishes.

You can meet with a doula early in your pregnancy to create a safe birth plan for you. During labor, a doula can also teach your husband or family how to support you. Remember, they are not doctors, but they know when to seek medical advice if they see any danger signs.

What are the benefits of receiving this kind of ongoing support?

Giving birth, especially for the first time, is an intense experience. Having a support person at this time is not mandatory, but many mothers have found it to be very beneficial.

• A great strength for the heart: When you feel that someone is there for you , the pain, fear, and anxiety subside and are replaced by the joy of having a baby .
• A positive experience: When you receive continuous support, you leave with a positive impression of the entire birth experience.
• Physical assistance: During the procedure, an assistant can help you with things like moving into a comfortable position and walking.
• Help with knowledge: Having someone with knowledge about things like how to breathe properly and postures that can reduce pain is a great help when you feel anxious and helpless.
• Reduced unnecessary medical interventions: Studies have shown that having a doula, especially if present, can reduce the unnecessary use of things like unplanned Cesarean sections, epidurals, or Pitocin.
• A familiar face in the hospital: The hospital is an unfamiliar environment. It's a great relief to have a familiar face around at that time.
• Breastfeeding support: If you have a doula or midwife, they can provide you with the help and guidance you need to start breastfeeding after you have your baby.

Are there any disadvantages to this? What are some things to consider?

But having an assistant like this isn't for everyone. Think about these things before making a decision.

• Privacy: Some people don't want anyone to intrude on their privacy at this time. Childbirth is a very private thing. If that's how you feel, there's nothing wrong with not having anyone around. That's entirely up to you.
• Difficulty for the husband: Childbirth is a time of blood, sweat, and tears. Some husbands may find it difficult to endure the emotional toll of watching this. If you think your husband is like that, don't try to force him to stay. He may only be around during labor and then stay out during the delivery.
• Crowding: Sometimes it can feel overwhelming when there are too many people in the room. If you need multiple people to help, set a limit on how many people can be there and make sure everyone is working towards the same goal.
• Cost: If you choose to use the services of a doula or a private midwife, it will cost you a certain amount of money. This may not be something everyone can afford.
• Disappointment: No matter how much we plan, sometimes things don't go as expected. Then we may feel like the experience was ruined because of that assistant.

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