Evidence & Research
Women’s Experiences of Trust
This article is an interesting read, focussing on the importance of trust between birthing women and their midwives. Trust is a two way street, women and families need to be able to trust the person supporting them during pregnancy, birth and the postnatal period, but they need to know that they will be trusted by their midwives too. This kind of relationship develops overtime, with continuity and relationship development. It is very rare for women to be able to see the same midwife throughout their birthing journey, and even rarer still to see that midwife during the birth. This is where Maternal Wellbeing Coach or Doula can improve experiences significantly.
Midwife and Doula: The ultimate collaboration
This research looks at how having both a Midwife and a Doula or Wellbeing Coach can be beneficial for better health and wellbeing outcomes for the woman, the baby and the whole family.
Massage Treatment During Pregnancy
This is an interesting piece of research to read about the benefits of massage therapy in pregnancy. “Massage has been shown to be valuable to pregnant women with anxiety, depression, leg, and back pain, and has shown significant benefit in perception of pain during labour” (Shetty, 2021)
ASPE Doula Issue Brief
In the United States, considerations are ongoing for providing Doula support coverage through medical insurance. Many insurance providers now cover the use of a doula with birth coverage. This article is a good introduction to changing our thoughts about non-medical support during this time to an essential investment. The article promotes Doula support as an “option to improve the maternity care experience for patients and provide supports that can contribute to improved maternal health outcomes” (Knocke et al, 2022).