Why You and Your Baby Deserve a Doula

Doulas benefits have been documented in many renowned, controlled studies.

Eleven studies showed the following effects of doula support:

Effects on Birth Outcomes:

• Labors are shorter.(25%)
• There are fewer complications.
• Cesarean rates are reduced.(51%)
• There is less need for oxytocin to speed up labor.
• Need for forceps is reduced.(57%)
• Women request less pain medication(35%) and epidurals(60%)

Effects on the Mother:

• Greater satisfaction with their birth experience.
• More positive assessments of their babies.
• Less postpartum depression.

Effects on the Baby:

• 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 the health care system:

• 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