Doula’s Assistant

It’s proven that doulas can serve as a substitute for epidural anesthesia. They use a range of techniques, but the two most essential tools they rely on are always with them: their hands and their mind.

Hands

A doula’s hands enhance the physiological process of childbirth in every sense. Here’s how they help eliminate the need for pain relief:

• Ensuring a comfortable position.
• Performing massage.
• Conducting acupressure sessions.
• Offering a comforting embrace.

Mind

A doula’s mind supports parents in making informed decisions by guiding them through questions like:

• Benefit: What are the advantages for the mother and baby?
• Risk: What are the potential risks for the mother and baby?
• Alternatives: What alternatives are available?
• Intuition: What does your intuition say?
• Nothing: What happens if we do nothing?

A doula’s touch provides comfort, and her words empower. This level of care is always part of her support. However, doulas also bring additional tools to ease the birthing process.

7 Tools in a Doula’s Kit

Birthing Ball
Also known as a pregnancy ball, it provides excellent support during pregnancy and labor. It offers a range of comfortable positions and helps open the pelvis more effectively.

Candles
Warm lighting calms the atmosphere and sets a soothing mood. Doulas often carry small, battery-operated candles. Watching the flickering light can be a form of meditation and a great focal point for concentration.

Comb
A comb isn’t for styling during labor—it’s for gripping during contractions. The teeth stimulate certain acupressure points and help distract the brain, shifting attention away from labor pain.

Massage Oil
Whether scented or unscented, depending on the mother’s preference, massage oil is an essential tool to relax and distract the laboring woman.

Lip Balm
Dry hospital air, combined with heavy breathing during labor, can cause lips to crack. A doula’s job is to alleviate every discomfort, even the smallest ones.

Music Speaker
Never underestimate the power of music. During labor, it helps the brain focus on rhythm, making physical sensations easier to manage. Music can also regulate breathing and drown out unpleasant hospital noises.

Shawl or Pashmina
A doula often carries a sling or shawl for various uses: to support the mother in different positions, demonstrate comfortable postures with the baby, or provide something for the mother to pull on during contractions.

A Personalized Toolkit

Every doula has her own list of tools, which may vary widely and sometimes even seem unusual. What matters most is how these tools help create a positive birthing experience.

Doulas should feel free to experiment with their methods, and mothers should feel empowered to voice their preferences—all of which can be conveniently documented in our app.