Wikipedia: A doula (/ˈduːlə/, also known as a labour coach[1] ,[2] is a nonmedical person who assists a woman before, during, or after childbirth, as well as her partner and/or family, by providing physical assistance, and emotional support.[3] The provision of continuous support during labour by doulas (as well as nurses, family, or friends) is associated with improved maternal and fetal health and a variety of other benefits.[4]
Numerous studies have shown the benefits of a doula-supported birth. As you consider a doula-supported birth, consider some of the findings:
Effects on Birth Outcomes:
Effects on the Mother:
- Labors are 25% shorter.¹
- There are fewer complications.
- Cesarean rates are reduced by 50%.¹
- There is 40% less need for oxytocin to speed up labor.¹
- Need for forceps is reduced by 40%.¹
- Women request 30% less pain medication and 60% fewer epidurals.¹
- Greater satisfaction with their birth experience.
- More positive assessments of their babies.
- Less postpartum depression.
- Babies have shorter hospital stays with fewer admissions to special care nurseries.
- Babies breastfeed more easily.
- Mothers are more affectionate to their babies postpartum.
Effects on Partner
- Greater sense of security for birthing partner.
- Ability to focus on being the best support to birthing partner and/or siblings.
- Learned and/or enforced skills to support birthing partner.
- Over all peace about planning the family's birth.
- The cost of obstetrical care is dramatically reduced.
- Women are pleased with the personalized care doulas offer.
- The Benefit of continuous support in labor is recognized by:
- The World Health Organization
- The Medical Leadership Council (an organization of over 1200 U.S. hospitals)
- The Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Canada
