| The Benefits of Doula Support |
For years women have supported one another during labor and
birth. It is only recently that in our society this essential support
began to disappear. A doula provides continuous emotional,
physical, and educational support to a family during pregnancy,
childbirth, and in early parenthood. Several studies have been done
that indicate the benefits of doula support. In studies of over 5000
women with and without such support the following information was
found:*
Women who had such a companion showed a
Long-term Benefits include:
* Klaus, Marshall H., M.D., Phyllis Klaus, M. Ed., and John Kennell,
M.D., Mothering the Mother, NY: Addison-Wesley 1993
birth. It is only recently that in our society this essential support
began to disappear. A doula provides continuous emotional,
physical, and educational support to a family during pregnancy,
childbirth, and in early parenthood. Several studies have been done
that indicate the benefits of doula support. In studies of over 5000
women with and without such support the following information was
found:*
Women who had such a companion showed a
- Greater than 50% reduction in caesarean sections
- 25% shorter labors
- 60% reduction in request of epidurals
- 40% reduction in the use of artificial Oxytocin (Pitocin)
- 30% reduction in the use of pain medication
- 40% reduction in forceps deliveries
Long-term Benefits include:
- A greater satisfaction with the birth experience
- Fewer incidences of postpartum depression
- Greater breastfeeding success
- Increased bonding between mother and baby
* Klaus, Marshall H., M.D., Phyllis Klaus, M. Ed., and John Kennell,
M.D., Mothering the Mother, NY: Addison-Wesley 1993
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| Birth of Baby Mateo in 2004 |
| "Her calm, sincere, and loving approach really is the essence of her services as a doula. Her kind and encouraging words made my birthing experience a very positive one!" ~K.P |
| "Michelle continues to provide us with lots of helpful parenting and baby tips. I highly recommend her to anyone who is looking for a doula." ~L.B |