Tg1 a few days ago in a report called the doula the "new emerging figure in support of women during pregnancy, childbirth and the postnatal period".
A definition that has sparked abitter controversy which sees the doulas and the midwives opposed.
The National Federation of Midwifery Colleges (Fnco) has issued a note asking Tg1 for an immediate correction of what has been declared and to reiterate that it is not the doula, but themidwife (READ) the only truly competent figure to accompany the woman during pregnancy, childbirth and the postnatal period.
READ MORE: Who is the doula?
We make clarity.
Who is the doula?
The word "doula" comes from ancient Greek and refers to a woman who is at the service of another woman (READ). That is a domestic slave who looked after the well-being of their mistress, assisting during childbirth, giving emotional and spiritual support. Currently the doula defines a new professional figure who assists women during pregnancy and after childbirth, having as a specific basis the humanization of childbirth and help for the correct care of mother and child, even after birth.
However, it is worth reiterating that the doula she is not a medical figure, she has no certified medical and clinical training, and therefore her presence should never overlap or collide with that of the midwife.
READ MORE: Profession doula, who it is and what it does for families
In short, despite the proliferation of courses and associations that undertake to give adequate training to aspiring doules, this remains a figure with unclear contours, explain the midwives, more like a friend who knows everything about pregnancy e delivery than to a midwife with specifics medical skills.
And in fact the Fnco reminds us that the figure of the doula is neither defined nor certified, while to become a midwife it is necessary to undertake a long training process (Read).
19 PHOTOS
The time of delivery
Many beautiful images concerning the moment of birth, unique and magical
Here is what the Fnco writes.
"The NHS is called upon to respond to the doubts and loneliness of women during pregnancy, childbirth and the puerperium with specifically qualified professionals", the Federation of Midwives reiterates in a note, recalling that "for the exercise of the profession of midwife it is in fact the achievement of a qualifying qualification issued by universities after a three-year degree is required, whose academic curriculum also includes theoretical / practical teaching aimed at learning how to take charge, according to a holistic approach, of women, children and families. Therefore, interpersonal skills are included: counseling, listening, support, support, accompaniment as well as care / assistance throughout the birth process ".
become midwives in fact, it is necessary to follow a university course that lasts three years, during which theory is studied, but also practiced in the delivery room and in the operating room.
And at the end of the 3 years there is a period of training.
WATCH THE VIDEO: I am having a home birth with the midwife
In short, the midwives explain that pregnant women find themselves more and more often alone, they are in need of support and information, and the answer to these needs can only come from National Health Service through competent professionals. On the other hand, in this void, non-certified figures make room for themselves who also offer "accompaniment courses at birth" that only midwives can do (Read).
