"If a doula were a drug, it would be unethical not to use it." 
- John H. Kennel, MD 

Benefits of Doula Support

Research shows that doula care can improve outcomes for both mother and baby.  An independent, systematic review of published research (including over 16,000 women worldwide) concluded that all women should have continuous support throughout their labor and birth  (2).
Peaceful Baby
Obstetric benefits include:
  • Shorter average labor time
  • Reduced need for induction by oxytocin (Pitocin)
  • Reduced use of epidural and other pain medications
  • Decreased C-section rate

Infant benefits include:
  • Higher Apgar scores
  • Decreased rate of admission to Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)
  • Improved breastfeeding

Psychological benefits include:
  • Better maternal-infant interaction
  • Higher maternal assessment of her baby
  • Greater satisfaction with the birthing experience
  • Less postpartum depression and anxiety
  • Greater self-esteem

Learn more about my doula services.

Doulas support families during pregnancy, birth and beyond by:

  • Providing accurate information and resources about pregnancy and childbirth, including the physiological process, natural birth methods, medical interventions, and comfort techniques
  • Assisting her in preparing and carrying out her birth plan
  • Understanding and providing for her emotional needs during labor
  • Supporting and encouraging coping techniques and positions that she is comfortable with
  • Facilitating communication between the laboring woman, her partner, and her clinical providers
  • Facilitating and encouraging partner participation at his/her comfort level

Video - The Essential Ingredient: Doula

The video below is a documentary produced by DONA International in 2010.  It highlights the origin and rationale of doula support.
*References:
1) Klaus, M., Kennell, J. and Klaus, P.  The Doula Book: How a Trained Labor Companion Can Help You Have a Shorter, Easier and Healthier Birth, 2012 (3rd ed)
2) Hodnett, E. D., S. Gates, G. J. Hofmeyr and Sakala, C. Continuous support for women during childbirth. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2013(7): CD003766
*Additional references available upon request.