A reflexion on the emotional support during childbirth

Abstract

Traditionally the process of childbirth happened naturally. The labouring women were cared for by midwives and were surrounded by their family. The pathologization and hospitalization of childbirth eliminated from the healthcare practice the personal support and companionship to women in labour. Scientific evidence demonstrates that comfort measures and emotional support help to trigger the labour, to reduce its length and it lessens the need for interventions. Based on these facts, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Brazilian Ministry of Health recommend the presence of a childbirth helper or doula during delivery. This recommendation was regulated by Decree n. 11.108 dated from the 7th of April 2005 and voted by the Brazilian National Congress. It guarantees the women's right to a helper of their own choosing during childbirth in any Public Health System hospital. And yet only a small number of hospitals incorporate this practice. This study's purpose is to reflect on the advantages of a doula during labour and the respect for the labouring women's individuality so as to ensure as afe delivery and the parents' satisfaction on the birth of a new family member. It is essential to acknowledge the scientific evidence, to change the professionals'approach to childbirth, and the current hospital procedures respecting thus the labouring women's rights and the uniqueness of each birth