What is a doula?

  • A doula is someone who provides physical support which includes comfort measures and positioning, counter pressure, massage, pregnancy exercises, hydrotherapy support, and breath work.

  • A doula is someone who provides emotional support includes providing encouragement, reassurance, one-on-one attention, and reducing anxiety.

  • A doula is someone who provides informational support which includes childbirth education, referrals and resources to community services, and information on informed consent and advocacy.

How doulas can positively impact labor

Fore more infomration about the benefits on doulas, please visit www.EvidenceBasedBirth.com/doulas

 
what are doulas

Why are doulas important?

Evidence shows that continuous labor support by a doula may improve outcomes for mothers and infants. Benefits may include:

  • Increased vaginal birth (fewer cesarean sections)

  • Shorter labor

  • Lower rates of instrument-assisted births

  • Less use of pain medication

  • Reduction in low 5-minute APGAR scores

  • Decreased negative emotions regarding the birth experience

 Support for Women During Childbirth Cochrane Article

More evidence on the benefits of doula support.

  • What is a doula?

    DOULA SUPPORT IMPACT ON MATERNAL HEALTH OUTCOMES FOR MINORITY WOMEN

    AJOG Article
  • What is a doula?

    CONTINUOUS LABOR SUPPORT FOR MIDDLE-CLASS COUPLES: EFFECT ON CESAREAN DELIVERY RATES

    Article