Numerous studies have documented the benefits of having a doula present during labor. Many recent reports show a very high number of positive birth outcomes when a doula is present. With the support of a doula, women are less likely to have pain medication administered and less likely to have a cesarean birth. Women also reported having a more positive childbirth experience.

What is the effect doulas have on birth outcomes?

50% reduction in the cesarean rate 25% shorter labor
60% reduction in epidural requests 40% reduction in Pitocin use
30% reduction in analgesia use 40% reduction in forceps delivery
Improved chest/breastfeeding
Reported satisfaction with birth experience
Decreased postpartum depression
There are no disadvantages to having women supporting other women during birth.

Planning on an epidural?

Plenty of women receive epidurals for pain, some planned and some unplanned. A doula is able to support a laboring mom planning on receiving an epidural the same as one who is not. Many hospitals will only begin to administer anesthesia when a laboring woman is at least 4-5cm dilated. A doula supports a mom before, during, and after it is administered. Often times, women are able to labor a longer amount of time with a doula, lessening the chances of a needed c-section, or interventions such as forceps/vacuum. If the laboring person receives an epidural, a doula can help keep laboring person and partner make informed decisions and help laboring person with comfort measures and optimal positioning for labor. Epidural or not, a doula saves as emotional and mental support

Scheduled a c-section?

If laboring person has a scheduled c-section, a doula is able to accompany the laboring person, calming them and their partner before the surgery, which often brings about all kinds of emotions. After the c-section, when the partner will need to stay with the baby, a doula is able to stay with the laboring person so they are not alone, keeping them updated on the process as well as providing mental and emotional support. A doula is also able to document the birth, write a birth story, take photos, and help with chest/breastfeeding.