Evidence on Doulas

Emotional Support

Doulas provide continuous emotional encouragement, which can reduce anxiety and stress during labor.
They are a calming presence and offer reassurance, especially for first-time
Doulas can help build a sense of confidence in the mother, making them feel empowered and supported.

Physical Support

Doulas offer physical comfort measures, such as massage, breathing techniques, positioning suggestions, and counter-pressure, which can help manage pain naturally.
They can help with relaxation techniques, encourage movement, and suggest positions to help labor progress more efficiently.
They are skilled at helping with non-medical pain relief, which may reduce the need for interventions like epidurals.

Advocacy and Communication

A doula can help facilitate communication between the mother and their medical team, ensuring that their preferences, birth plan, and concerns are heard and respected
Doulas advocate for the mother without making medical decisions, ensuring that they are informed and empowered to make choices.
They can assist with navigating the hospital or birth center environment and explaining medical procedures, options, and interventions.

Reduced Need for Medical Interventions

Studies show that having a doula can lower the likelihood of needing pain medications, epidurals, or caesarean sections.
Doulas help promote natural pain management techniques, which can lead to more positive birth outcomes in some cases.

Shorter Labor

Research has shown that having a doula may lead to shorter labor durations.
Doulas provide continuous support, which may help the labor process progress more smoothly.

Partner Support

Doulas provide important support for partners, guiding them on how to best assist and be involved during labor.
They offer breaks for the partner, allowing them to rest, eat, or recharge without feeling like they are abandoning the mother.
Doulas help create a more supportive environment for both the mother and their partner.

Postpartum Support

Doulas offer support after the birth, helping with breastfeeding, newborn care, and emotional well-being
They can offer guidance and information on newborn care, lactation, and the early postpartum period, helping reduce feelings of overwhelm or isolation.

Increased Satisfaction with the Birth Experience

Many people who hire doulas report feeling more satisfied with their birth experience, regardless of whether the birth is unmedicated, medicated, or involves medical interventions.
The presence of a doula often contributes to a positive birth experience because of the personalized care and attention they provide.

Support for All Birth Plans

Doulas are non-judgmental and support the birth plan, whether it includes an unmedicated birth, planned interventions, or a caesarean section.
Their role is to ensure the mother feels supported in their choices and to help them navigate the process smoothly, whatever the circumstances.

Reduced Rates of Postpartum Depression

Doulas can provide ongoing emotional support during the early weeks postpartum, which has been shown to reduce the likelihood of postpartum depression and anxiety,
Overall, a doula can significantly enhance the birth experience by providing continuous support and care, helping the mother feel more informed, empowered, and calm. Whether the birth is straightforward or involves complications, a doula is there to support the individual and their partner throughout the entire journey.