Operation Special Delivery provides birthing coaches

Labor doulas are specially trained labor coaches who give informational, emotional and physical support to women during childbirth.

Founded following the events of Sept. 11, 2001, OSD provides volunteer doulas to all 50 states and all U.S. military installations to women who are giving birth while their partners are on military deployment. Childbirth can be an extremely stressful time for a laboring woman. Although doulas do not typically replace the laboring woman's partner, their presence and support do play a very important role in the progress of her labor and the safety of the baby.

Labor doulas are part of the Childbirth and Postpartum Professional Association (CAPPA), a non-profit international organization founded in 1998 to offer women care before during and after birth through education and support. According to the CAPPA vision, a doula normally meets with the pregnant woman in the second or third trimester to get acquainted and learn about any prior birth experiences and the history of this pregnancy.

A doula helps at the time of delivery by easing the patient's transition into the hospital and is there through changing hospital shifts and medical staff. Studies show that women who utilize doula services are half as likely to have a Cesarean section.

Doulas help patients to rest and relax. They assist by using a variety of helpful positions and comfort measures. They provide praise, reassurance and companionship to women in labor. Should a complication arise, the doula can greatly assist the patient and her family to understand what is happening and what options are available to them.

Why are doula services free for military families? OSD strongly believes that no woman should deliver without support, especially those whose spouses are serving to defend our country and freedom.

For more information, call (888) 692-2772 or visit osd@cappa.net for information or www.operationspecialdelivery.com to download the application.