About Doulas

BIRTH DOULAS

Birth Doulas accompany mothers and their partners on the complex journey through labor land. They are like a cross between a counselor and a tour guide. A doula provides emotional support--such as encouragement, and the peace of mind of having continuous care from a trusted and knowledgeable professional. She provides physical comfort--massage, and help with laboring positions. Doulas assist the mother and couple in gathering and navigating information--helping them become informed about the course of labor, their options, and creating space for them to ask questions or take time to consider their options and decisions. A doula helps to create a cohesive birthing team.

photo by Debbie Baxter

A birth doula supports the partner as well. There is no substitute for a partner's intimate knowledge of and love for the birthing mother. The doula brings tools to assist the partner in being involved to the couple comfort level--she may demonstrate a technique for the partner to use, or may take a more active role when the partner steps out for a snack or to rest. By being a source of knowledge and a comforting presence, a doula alleviates some of the pressure partners often feel to "to do it all" or "remember everything". A doula enhances the dynamic between a woman and her partner. Read more about doulas and partners on DONA's website.

The value of birth doula support is proven anecdotally and statistically. Studies have shown that women who are supported throughout their labor by a doula have fewer interventions, shorter labors, healthier outcomes for mom and baby, and greater maternal satisfaction. Doula care is associated with:

"If a doula were a drug, it would be unethical not to use it."
--John Kennell, MD, Author

45% decrease in cesareans
25% reduction in labor length
50% decrease in oxytocin use
31% decrease in pain medication
34% reduction in forceps use
10-60% decrease in epidural requests
Women with doulas also report experiencing less pain during childbirth (1)

The benefit of doula support doesn't end at birth, either. Mothers who have been supported by doulas:

Experience less postpartum depression and anxiety;
Feel closer and more connected with their partners as well as their babies;
Have greater breastfeeding success;
Perceive their babies are more attractive, clever, and easy to manage. (2)

For further reading on the latest on doula-related research, click here.
You can also read personal testimonials.

1 Klaus, Marshall H, M.D., John H. Kennell, M.D., and Phyllis H. Klaus, C.S.W., M.F.T. "The Doula Book, Second Edition." c. 2002, Perseus Books Group, Cambridge, MA.
2 Klaus, et. al. See note 1.