Effects on Birth Outcomes:
- Labors are 25% shorter.
- There are fewer complications.
- Cesarean rates are reduced by 50%.
- There is 40% less need for oxytocin to speed up labor.
- Need for forceps is reduced by 40%.
- Women request 30% less pain medication and 60% fewer epidurals.
Effects on the Mother:
- Greater satisfaction with their birth experience.
- More positive assessments of their babies.
- Less postpartum depression.
Effects on the Baby:
- Babies have shorter hospital stays with fewer admissions to special care nurseries.
- Babies breastfeed more easily.
- Mothers are more affectionate to their babies postpartum.
Effects on the Health Care System:
- The cost of obstetrical care is dramatically reduced.
- Women are pleased with the personalized care doulas offer.
- The Benefit of continuous support in labor is recognized by:
- The World Health Organization
- The Medical Leadership Council (an organization of over 1200 U.S. hospitals)
- The Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Canada
source: better birth network
