What is a doula?
A doula is someone who offers evidence-based emotional, physical, and educational support. Doulas do not bring their own personal biases or judgments into the birth and postpartum space; they are there to help parents feel empowered, informed, and confident in their choices for their families. Doulas form strong connections with their clients based on trust and reliability. A doula meets parents where they are, physically and emotionally, to walk beside them through the transition into parenthood.
Evidence on doulas
25% decrease in the risk of Cesarean; the largest effect was seen with a doula (39% decrease)*
8% increase in the likelihood of a spontaneous vaginal birth; the largest effect was seen with a doula (15% increase)*
10% decrease in the use of any medications for pain relief; the type of person providing continuous support did not make a difference
Shorter labors by 41 minutes on average; there is no data on if the type of person providing continuous support makes a difference
38% decrease in the baby’s risk of a low five-minute Apgar score; there is no data on if the type of person providing continuous support makes a difference
31% decrease in the risk of being dissatisfied with the birth experience; this risk was reduced with continuous support provided by a doula or someone in their social network (family or friend), but not hospital staff
All information above came from evidencebasedbirth.com.
You can find more information in this research paper.
