How a Doula Can Benefit You

The word “doula” comes from the ancient Greek meaning “a woman who serves” and today refers to a trained professional who provides physical, emotional and informational support to a woman before, during and just after birth.

What are the benefits of using a doula?
Studies have shown that the use of a doula during labor and delivery can have the following beneficial effects:

• 50% reduction in the cesarean rate

• 25% shorter labor

• 60% reduction in epidural requests

• 40% reduction in pitocin use

• 30% reduction in analgesia use

• 40% reduction in forceps delivery

• Improved breastfeeding  

• Satisfaction with birth experience

• Decreased postpartum depression