One of the difficult areas for doulas is understanding, managing, advocating the decisions involved in medical interventions.
UNDERSTANDING: first – is this decision/request coming from the woman – and WHY? Second – is this decision being made by a midwife/doctor – and WHY?
MANAGING: first – knowing what techniques to use if this is a request/demand from the woman. Second – knowing what and how to ask questions of doctor/midwife
ADVOCATING: first – weighing up the needs of Mum/baby (the advantage of being a doula is you should know what she wants, well before labour). Second – weighing up the pros/cons of intervention suggested by doctor/midwife and how to advocate on her behalf, with respect and dignity.