A review on current scientific evidence concluded that doulas improve birthing outcomes for both mom and baby.
With a doula at your birth:
Your labor may be shorter
Labour may be up to an hour shorter with the continual support of a doula!
You’re more likely to have a natural spontaneous vaginal birth
…Without needing pain medication
Moms who would rather have an unmedicated vaginal birth are more likely to succeed with the assistance of a doula. A doula can improve comfort, provide coping techniques, and educate the mother on the labor process.
You’re also less likely to require a C-section or forceps
A doula can help reduce the need for interventions by helping the mother cope & by advocating for the mother’s birth plan.
The baby’s Apgar scores are better
The baby is healthier and better tolerates the birthing process.
Women rate their childbirth experience better
With the continual support of a knowledgeable doula, mothers are more satisfied with the childbirthing process. Doulas provide emotional and physical support – as well as advocate for the mother.
The pregnant mom wears the cape. The doula simply helps tie the cape on.
…And the chance of postpartum depression is decreased.
With so many proven positive outcomes, it’s easy to see why more women are opting to hiring doulas in addition to their primary care provider (midwife, MD, OB/GYN).
Doulas can support home or hospital births & advocate for the birth you want. A doula’s mission? That your childbirth is empowering.
Reference: Bohren, M., Hofmeyr, G., Sakala, C., Fukuzawa, R., & Cuthbert, A. (2017). Continuous support for women during childbirth. Cochrane Database Of Systematic Reviews. doi: 10.1002/14651858.cd003766.pub6
