The evidence is clear: doulas improve birth outcomes, increase satisfaction in childbirth, and decrease the need for interventions.
Women who are supported by a doula during childbirth are:
Less likely to undergo a cesarean section
Less likely to receive synthetic oxytocin to speed up labor
Less likely to use pain medication
Less likely to view their birth experience as negative
Continuous support during labor and birth is associated with:
Higher likelihood of spontaneous vaginal birth
Shorter labor
Fewer interventions during birth
Examine the evidence - a doula may be beneficial for you or someone you know!
Evidence Based Birth - Evidence on: Doulas
Check out the position paper by DONA International on the doula's role during childbirth:
Still not convinced? Read the Cochrane review of the research behind continuous support during labor:
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