Who Will Be in the Birth Room?
A new baby brings such joy, not only to her parents, but also to a gathering of grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, siblings, neighbors, friends… the list goes on and on. And truly, as new parents, you’ll learn to rely on the support they’ll provide over your child’s life.
Is there ever a time you won’t need that support?
Yes. In labor.
We recommend that the only people present during your labor and baby’s birth are you, your partner, and people with a necessary role (i.e., your midwife, OB, birth doula, nurse). Add to that list, if you want, only from people with whom you feel completely safe, relaxed and trusting.
If your extended family is a source of calm, quiet, nonjudgemental support, then by all means, have them at your birth. It is YOUR baby’s birth. You get to decide who is there. Or not there. But just because Uncle Ted and Aunt Linda drive from Virginia to meet your new baby does not mean they automatically get to be in the delivery room.
Who you invite into the birth room can affect your labor.
Hormones are secreted from the adrenal glands in response to stresses like anxiety, fright and excitement. High levels of these hormones inhibit oxytocin production, the key hormone necessary in birth, that helps reduce pain and brings on labor progress.
Your body will work best when you feel respected and relaxed. As doulas, our goal is to help you achieve both. Be sure to discuss who will be at your baby’s birth with your partner and doula. We’re happy to offer advice and recommendations on how to set expectations – and boundaries, if necessary – with your friends and family… and give tips on how to put your family and friends to work, AFTER the baby is born.
Check out our guide to Hiring a Doula in Tampa for more helpful info.
Christie Rinder is the founder of Buddha Belly Doulas, Tampa Bay's original and largest doula agency. Supporting families since 2009, she's passionate about ensuring every family has the support they need during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. She believes in helping women recognize their own inner wisdom, strength and power.
Having served as President of the Tampa Bay Birth Network for six years and 17 years serving families as a doula and agency owner, she has a reputation for leadership, dedication and compassion. A childbirth educator, certified lactation counselor as well as a certified doula, she makes a point of ensuring mothers and their partners understand all their birthing options and what to expect on their journey. > learn more about Christie
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