The many benefits of hiring a certified birth doula are recognized by the World Health Organization and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.
Several studies show that a doula’s continuous support, practical knowledge, and labor enhancing techniques help to reduce pain and anxiety in laboring women.

When a laboring woman is less frightened and feels less pain, her labor is more likely to progress without the need for interventions. Research shows that a doula’s presence during labor and birth results in the following positive outcomes:

reduction in the rate of cesareans

reduction in epidural requests

reduction in the use of pitocin (a contraction induction method)

reduction in vacuum assisted deliveries

shorter labors

an increase in successful breastfeeding and bonding

a reduction in “baby blues” and postpartum depression

Research shows that postpartum doula care results in

the following positive outcomes for families:

parents feel more secure and cared for

more successful in adapting to new family dynamics

greater success with breastfeeding

greater self-confidence

less postpartum depression

lower incidence of abuse