Benefits of a Birth Doula:
- Shorter labor
- Fewer complications/interventions
- Cesarean rates reduced
- Less use of episiotomies
- Less need for medications to speed labor
- Less need for forceps/vacuum extractor
- Fewer requests for pain medications
- Increased confidence in self and in partner/ coach
- Higher success rate in breastfeeding
- Increased satisfaction with birth experience
- Continuity in care: prenatal, labor, birth and immediate postpartum
- Lowers anxiety /stress levels
Role of a Birth Doula:
- Prenatal meeting(s)
- Phone support
- Support for entire labor: early labor, home/ hospital/ birth center, and first hours after birth
- Postpartum visit(s)
- To help you cope with labor and any unexpected or unwanted events
- Benefits to Coach/Partner:
- Allows partner to be involved to their own comfort level
- Support and help for the partner Partner can take breaks
- Increased confidence in self and laboring mother
- Partner views birth experience and baby more positively