Benefits of hiring a doula:
decrease in the risk of Cesarean
Increase in the likelihood of a spontaneous vaginal birth
decrease in the use of any medications for pain relief
Shorter labors by 41 minutes on average
decrease in the baby’s risk of a low five minute Apgar score
decrease in the risk of being dissatisfied with the birth experience
"The Evidence for Doulas," Evidence Based Birth.
As a doula:
I accompany women in labor to help ensure a safe and satisfying brith experience.
I provide emotional support, physical comfort measures and assist you, the client, to gain information needed to make informed decisions as they arise in labor.
I provide reassurance and perspective to you and your partner, make suggestion for labor progress, and help with relaxation, massage, positioning, and other techniques for comfort.
As a doula I DO NOT:
Perform clinical tasks such as taking blood pressure, listening to fetal heart tones, or doing vaginal exams.
Make decisions for you. I will help you get the necessary information for you to make an informed decision. I will remind you if there is a departure from your birth plan.
Speak to the staff instead of you regarding matters where decisions are being made. I will discuss your concerns with you and suggest options, but you and your partner will speak on your behalf to the clinical staff.