As a doula, understanding these medical terms and conditions is essential to providing comprehensive care for families. Below are the definitions and their relevance to doula care:
Oxytocin is a hormone that plays a critical role in childbirth and breastfeeding. It stimulates uterine contractions during labor and helps with the milk ejection reflex during breastfeeding.
Doula Care: Encouraging the release of natural oxytocin through comforting techniques such as massage, warmth, and emotional support can help facilitate labor progression and bonding after birth.
An episiotomy is a surgical cut made at the opening of the vagina during childbirth to prevent severe tearing.
Doula Care: As a doula, I provide information about alternatives to episiotomy, discuss perineal massage techniques during pregnancy, and help the birther make informed decisions about interventions during labor.
Prolapse occurs when pelvic organs, such as the uterus or cervix, slip down from their normal position, often after childbirth due to weakened pelvic muscles.
Doula Care: Educating birthers on postpartum recovery, pelvic floor exercises, and advocating for proper postpartum care can help reduce the risk or severity of prolapse.
Uterine involution is the process by which the uterus returns to its pre-pregnancy size after childbirth.
Doula Care: Supporting uterine health with breastfeeding (which stimulates oxytocin) and encouraging rest, hydration, and nutrition are ways I assist in promoting uterine involution.
Mastitis is a painful inflammation of breast tissue often caused by blocked milk ducts or infection, commonly occurring during breastfeeding.
Doula Care: I guide new mothers on proper breastfeeding techniques to prevent mastitis and provide resources for lactation support if needed.
Hemorrhage refers to excessive bleeding during or after childbirth. Causes include uterine atony, retained placenta, and cervical or vaginal tears.
Doula Care: Staying informed on risk factors for hemorrhage, supporting active management of the third stage of labor, and encouraging skin-to-skin contact and breastfeeding can reduce the risk of postpartum hemorrhage.