Statistics
Effects on the Birth Outcome:
• Labours are 25% - 50% shorter
• There are fewer complications
• Caesarean rates are reduced by up to 51%
• There is a 40% less need for pitocin to speed up labour
• 71% reduction in use of oxytocin
• Use of forceps is reduced by up to 57%
• Women request less or no pain medication and epidurals (30% - 60%)
Effects on the Parents:
• Women report greater satisfaction with childbirth and their abilities to be good mothers
• Mothers have more positive assessments of their babies
• Less postnatal depression
• 70% of couples were more satisfied with their relationship six weeks postnatally, compared to only 30% of couples without doulas
Effects on the Baby:
• Newborns have shorter hospital stays and fewer admissions to special care nurseries
• Newborns breastfeed easier
• Facilitates affectionate bonding between mother and child postnatally
Effects on the HealthCare System:
• Obstetrical care costs are dramatically reduced
• Women are pleased with the personalized care a doula offers
• Nurses are less stressed knowing that there is a professional doula with the mother at all times