The benefits are many...

Eleven studies showed the following effects of doula support:

Effects on Birth Outcomes:

• 50% decrease in cesarean section
• 25% decrease in length of labor
• 30% decrease in assisted delivery (use of forceps)
• 40% decrease in the use of synthetic oxytocin to augment labor
• 60% decrease in epidural use
• 30% decrease in the use of narcotic pain medication*

*Research from Mothering the Mother by Klaus, Kennell and Klaus, 1993.

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 breast feed 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 Gynaecologists of Canada

Copyright 2008 © LDS Doula Services. All rights reserved.

Hampstead, Maryland 410.913.7085 Lauren at LDSDoula.com