Publications by authors named "Amy Gilliland"

Eighteen identified motivations for attending a birth doula training workshop were ranked by 467 participants (466 females, 1 male) in 2010 and 2013. Participants selected a variety of reasons but only 30% chose to "become a professional doula" as their main reason. Another 20% wanted to "become a midwife.

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Introduction: The purpose of this study is to estimate the immediate cost savings per delivery with in-hospital professional doula labor support in Wisconsin. This is the first study that calculates the estimated cost savings of professional doula labor support specific to Wisconsin.

Methods: This analysis used results presented in and derived from the Cochrane Review of continuous labor support to estimate procedure reduction and cost savings in Wisconsin using birth statistics from 2010.

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Objective: to describe in detail the emotional support techniques employed by birth doulas during labour.

Design: grounded theory methodology was utilised in collecting and analysing interviews given by doulas and mothers who had doula care. By using both informants, a clearer picture of what constitutes emotional support by doulas emerged.

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This article illustrates the five main aspects of the doula's role: providing specific labor support skills; offering guidance and encouragement; assisting mothers to cover gaps in their care; building a team relationship; and encouraging communication between patient, nursing staff, and medical caregivers. The roles of both nurses and doulas are discussed, including the complementary nature of their roles, and also strategies for preventing conflict between doulas and nurses. A modern perspective on birth plans and the doula movement are included.

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