title: Use of a doula for labor coaching in a patient with indolent systemic mastocytosis in pregnancy.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Few cases of pregnancy in women with systemic mastocytosis have been reported. The effects of this disease on pregnancy have not been well documented, nor have the benefits of doula services for labor been reported for mastocytosis.
  
  
  METHODS
  A 35-year-old woman with indolent systemic mastocytosis sought preconception counseling regarding the effects of her disease on pregnancy and the effects of drugs and anesthesia on her disease. She then had an uncomplicated pregnancy and delivery, with multidisciplinary coordination and assistance by doulas to reduce the need for medication in labor.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Mastocytosis patients can achieve normal pregnancy outcomes. Predelivery planning can help prepare staff and patients for complications. Doulas can assist with labor preparation and delivery using nonmedical approaches to relief of pain and anxiety.
authors.affiliation: Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The George Washington University School of Medicine, Washington, DC 20037, USA.
authors.forename: Samantha L
authors.initials: SL
authors.lastname: Kehoe
authors.forename: Susanne L
authors.initials: SL
authors.lastname: Bathgate
authors.forename: Charles J
authors.initials: CJ
authors.lastname: Macri
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D017028:Caregivers; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D034721:Mastocytosis, Systemic / Q000628:therapy*; D011247:Pregnancy; D011248:Pregnancy Complications / Q000628:therapy*; D011295:Prenatal Care