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

From DONA's Why use a doula?

Women should be surrounded by those they love and trust during labor, delivery and the postpartum period. A woman's emotional support team is as vital to her birth experience as the medical team. Labor is not a time when women are able to be the lone decision-makers. Advocates who are there for her are necessary to help protect her memory of her birthing experience. Childbirth education should include information on doulas. Families should be given the tools to help the laboring woman achieve the birth that is the safest and most satisfying for her. Research has shown that most women accompanied by a doula during birth have better outcomes and are more satisfied with their birth experience. ~ CAPPA's position on Labor Support