Why Should I Have a Doula?

In recent studies*, the presence of a doula in the labor and delivery room has been shown to decrease:

  • Cesarean section rates by 40%
  • Length of labor by 25%
  • Epidural requests by up to 60%
  • Use of pain medication by 31%
  • Forceps deliveries by 34%
  • Use of oxytocin by 50%

In addition to those amazing benefits, there are others:

  • Having a doula gives you a better chance at having the type of birth experience you want.
  • Women with doulas have an overall better perception and memory of their births afterward.
  • Your medical expenses may be decreased.
  • Parent-infant bonding and nursing are enhanced.
  • Postpartum depression is less common and self-esteem and confidence are higher.
  • Satisfaction with your partner may be significantly increased after the birth.

*Klaus MH, Kennell JH, Klaus PH. The Doula Book. 2nd Ed. Persus Publishing. 2002. p 98

Recommended Reading

  • "Ina May's Guide to Childbirth" by Ina May Gaskin
  • "The Complete Organic Pregnancy" by Deirdre Dolan and Alexandra Zissu
  • "Husband-Coached Childbirth" by Robert A. Bradley, MD
  • "The Birth Partner" by Penny Simkin
  • "The Doula Book" ("Mothering the Mother" - older verision) by Marshall & Phyllis Klaus
  • "Pregnancy, Childbirth and the Newborn" by Penny Simkin
  • "Wise Woman Herbal for the Childbearing Year" by Susun Weed
  • "The Natural Pregnancy Book" by Aviva Jill Romm
  • "The Complete Book of Pregnancy and Childbirth" by Sheila Kitzinger
  • "Obstretric Myths Versus Research Realities" by Henci Goer
  • "Your Amazing Newborn" by Marshall H. Klaus and Phyllis H. Klaus
  • "Vaccinations - A Thoughtful Parent's Guide" by Aviva Jill Romm
  • "Father's First Steps" by Robert Sears, MD and James Sears, MD