What does a doula do?
A birth doula provides emotional, physical, and informational support to expectant parents before, during, and shortly after childbirth. Their role typically includes:
Emotional Support: Doulas help parents feel more confident and informed, providing reassurance and encouragement during labor.
Physical Support: They offer comfort measures such as massage, positioning, and breathing techniques to help manage pain and facilitate labor.
Education: Doulas provide information about the birthing process, pain relief options, and what to expect, helping parents make informed decisions.
Advocacy: They assist in communicating the parents' wishes to the medical team and help navigate any questions or concerns during labor.
Postpartum Support: Some doulas also provide support after the birth, helping with breastfeeding, newborn care, and emotional adjustments.
Why hire a doula?
Research has shown that hiring a birth doula can have several positive outcomes for mothers and babies. Here are some key statistics highlighting these benefits:
Reduced Labor Duration: Studies suggest that continuous labor support from a doula can shorten labor by an average of 25% to 30%.
Lower Cesarean Rates: Women who have doula support are approximately 40% less likely to have a cesarean section.
Reduced Use of Pain Relief: Doulas can help reduce the need for pain medication, with some studies showing a decrease in epidural use by about 30%.
Increased Satisfaction: Women with doula support often report higher satisfaction with their birth experience. Some studies show an increase in overall satisfaction by 30% or more.
Better Outcomes for Babies: The presence of a doula has been associated with lower rates of low Apgar scores (which assess a newborn's health) and higher rates of breastfeeding initiation.
Fewer Interventions: Doulas help to reduce the likelihood of interventions such as vacuum extraction and forceps delivery by about 20-25%