Labour Support
Most pregnant individuals want to have company and support in labour and it's a very personal decision who to invite. Research shows that having someone with you can reduce your chances of some complications in labour. Support can come from a partner, family members, trusted friends or paid or professional health care providers. Don't hesitate to be choosy about who can support you best.
In Ontario, it is possible to hire a doula to support you in labour but this expense is not covered by our provincial health care plan.
Inviting your support people in advance will give you and your team time to plan ahead to be available and will give everyone time to learn and prepare for what you might need. Check with your healthcare provider how many support people you are allowed at any one time during labour and birth. The following resources will give you some ideas about support in labour so you can make choices that are right for you.
- Association of Ontario Doulas - What is a doula?
- Doulas of North America - what is a doula?
- Childbirth Connection - Comfort Measures for Labor Pain Relief
- The MotHERS Program - Birth plans (scroll to section on support people)
- PHAC - Family Centred Maternity Care Guidelines - Supportive Care in Labour
- Pregnancy Info - Preparing for delivery
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