US obstetricians and gynecologists urge doctors to collaborate with doulas – What is the situation in Kazakhstan?

American obstetricians and gynecologists are urging doctors to work alongside doulas, recognizing the significant support these professionals offer women throughout pregnancy, labor, and the postpartum period. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) defines a doula as a trained professional providing emotional, physical, and educational assistance, emphasizing that doulas do not replace medical professionals but help women navigate the birthing process.

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Doulas also provide patients with information and useful resources, including childbirth preparation training, and discuss general anatomy and physiology to help women better understand the changes occurring during pregnancy and the various stages of labor.

According to ACOG, doulas equip patients with information and resources, including childbirth preparation training and explanations of physiological changes during pregnancy and labor. A key role of doulas is patient advocacy, ensuring the woman's voice is heard by medical staff. They assist in formulating questions and preparing for discussions about medical interventions, empowering patients to make informed decisions and feel more confident.

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Specifically, they help formulate questions and prepare for discussions regarding medical interventions so that the patient can better understand the situation and available options before a decision is made. This allows the patient to feel more confident.

Research cited by ACOG suggests that doula support is linked to positive outcomes, including lower rates of cesarean sections and birth complications, increased breastfeeding success, and higher maternal satisfaction. The organization also notes that this support could potentially reduce overall healthcare system costs.

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There are no specific rules regarding this. The country lacks a legal framework. In reality, doulas truly improve birth outcomes and, with rare exceptions, are very helpful.

In Kazakhstan, the practice of doulas is not governed by a specific regulatory framework. Aliya Aimbetova, Deputy Chairperson of the Board at the Scientific Center of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Perinatology in Almaty, stated that while there are no explicit rules, doulas are generally seen as beneficial to birth outcomes. She explained that doulas can attend births in Kazakhstan as birth partners, provided the expectant mother arranges this with the maternity hospital in advance. At facilities like the National Center of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Perinatology, doulas are welcomed as partners for any woman.

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For example, at the National Center of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Perinatology, doulas are welcome to attend as a partner for any woman.