Doula Benefits

According to the APA (American Pregnancy Association), having a doula showed a “very high number of positive birth outcomes. With their support, women were less likely to have pain-relief medications administered and less likely to have a cesarean birth. Women also reported having a more positive childbirth experience.”

Other studies have shown that having a doula

• decreases the overall cesarean rate by 50%

• Decreases the length of labor by 25%

• Decreases the use of oxytocin by 40%

• lowers the requests for an epidural by 60%

Doulas often use the power of touch and massage to reduce stress and anxiety during labor. According to physicians Marshal Klaus and John Kennell, massage helps stimulate the production of natural oxytocin. The pituitary gland secretes natural oxytocin to the bloodstream (causing uterine contractions) and to the brain (resulting in feelings of well-being and drowsiness, along with a higher pain threshold).

Other Doula Benefits

In various supportive roles, doulas may also provide the following services to support & nurture mothers:

• General preparation for the birth

• Constructing a post partum (Laying-in) or birth plan

• Birth photography

• massage & other forms of gentle therapy

• setting a relaxing environment with soft music and aromatherapy

• Assistance with breathing exercises & meditation

• pregnancy, labor & delivery affirmations

• Adjusting the mother’s position during labor for comfort and to encourage baby to move into optimal birthing position