"If a doula were a drug,
it would be unethical not to use it.".
~John H. Kennell, MD
Doulas reduce the labor time, reduce the need for medication, and
reduce the need for Cesarean. Plus, there is the added bonus of a women there to support you.
The benefits of a trained doula are:
Continuous emotional and physical support for the birthing family.
Support for the father, which increases his confidence in his role.
Knowledge and experience in the birthing process.
Studies
have also shown:
50% reduction in cesarean birth
30% reduction in requests for pain medication
60% fewer requests for epidural anesthesia
25% decrease in the length of labor
30% decrease in use
of Pitocin
Reduction of medical cost
Increased breastfeeding success
Greater
overall satisfaction
Source: Klaus, Kennell, and Klaus,
Mothering the Mother, New York, Addison-Wesley, 1993.
Numerous clinical studies
have found that a doula’s presence at birth
tends to result in shorter labors with fewer complications
reduces
negative feelings about one’s childbirth experience
reduces
the need for pitocin (a labor-inducing drug), forceps or vacuum extraction and cesareans
reduces the mother’s request for pain medication and/or epidurals
Research shows parents who receive support can:
Feel more secure and cared for
Are more
successful in adapting to new family dynamics
Have greater success with breastfeeding
Have greater self-confidence
Have less postpartum depression
Partner's have more confidence in their ability to assist in the birth.
