I plan to use medication for pain, do I still need a doula?
Although epidurals are effective relieving pain most of the time,
there are things your epidural can not do for you. Your epidural will
not:
- Give
you a massage
- Provide
you with information about your options
- Get
you ice chips
- Give
your partner a break
- Be
reassuring and nurturing
- Help
you with breathing
- Help
you with breastfeeding
- Take
photographs
Nothing can take the place of a comforting touch or words of encouragement.
The use of a doula and an epidural can give the experience that you
desire and allow you to focus on the birth of your baby.