A doula provides emotional, physical, and informational support before, during, and after birth. Research consistently shows that having a doula present can lead to better birth experiences and outcomes for both mother and baby. Here are just a few reasons why doulas are highly recommended:
1. Shorter Labor (But Not by 50%)
Studies show that having a doula can reduce the length of labor, but not by 50%. According to a systematic review of 26 studies, women who had continuous labor support (such as a doula) experienced, on average, a 25% shorter labor (Bohren et al., 2017). The presence of a doula is associated with fewer medical interventions, which may contribute to a more efficient and smoother labor process.
2. Continuous Support: The Doula Never Leaves Your Side
Unlike nurses, who have shift changes, and partners, who may need breaks, doulas provide uninterrupted support throughout labor and birth. This continuous presence is one of the key reasons for lower rates of stress and anxiety among laboring mothers (Dekker, 2019).
3. Hands-On Comfort & Support
Doulas are trained in comfort techniques, including:
✔️ Back rubs and counterpressure
✔️ Foot and hand massages
✔️ Position changes to encourage labor progression
✔️ Encouraging hydration and nourishment
✔️ Creating a calming birth environment
This extra set of hands allows the birthing partner to focus on emotional connection and reassurance, making the experience more intimate and supportive.
4. Reduced Need for Pain Medication
Doulas help reduce the need for epidurals and other pain medications by offering natural pain relief methods, such as:
✔️ Breathing techniques
✔️ Massage and acupressure
✔️ Labor positions that ease discomfort
✔️ Emotional reassurance
In a well-known study, only 8% of women with a doula chose an epidural, compared to 55% of those without one (Klaus et al., 1993). More recent research supports this, showing that women with doula support are less likely to require epidurals, Pitocin, or C-sections (Bohren et al., 2017). The fewer interventions a mother has, the more alert and engaged she and her baby will be after birth, making bonding easier.
5. Unlimited Informational Support
Doulas are trained in all types of births and pregnancies—from unmedicated vaginal births to Cesarean sections and high-risk deliveries. While they do not provide medical advice, they can:
✔️ Explain medical procedures in easy-to-understand terms
✔️ Help you research birth options and interventions
✔️ Direct you to credible sources and specialists
✔️ Support informed decision-making
Still Unsure About Hiring a Doula?
If you’re on the fence about hiring a doula, talk to someone who has had a doula-assisted birth! Their personal experience can help you decide whether a doula is the right choice for your birth journey.
References:
- Bohren, M. A., Hofmeyr, G. J., Sakala, C., Fukuzawa, R. K., & Cuthbert, A. (2017). “Continuous support for women during childbirth.” Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 7(CD003766).
- Dekker, R. (2019). “Evidence on: Doulas.” Evidence-Based Birth. Retrieved from https://evidencebasedbirth.com
- Klaus, M. H., Kennell, J. H., & Klaus, P. H. (1993). Mothering the Mother: How a Doula Can Help You Have a Shorter, Easier, and Healthier Birth. Addison-Wesley.
