Why Use a Doula?
"If a doula were a drug, it would be unethical not to use it."
- John H. Kennell, MD
Why Use a Doula?
Women helping other women give birth is a widespread ancient practice that is still used today. However, as childbirth moved from home to hospitals this vital ingredient in childbirth began to disappear.
In the 1970's, Drs. John Kennel and Marshall Klaus investigated ways to enhance the bonding between mother and infant. They found that introducing a doula into the delivery room not only improved the bond between the mother and infant but that it also seemed to decrease the incidence of complications. They also found a major reduction in the length of labor. Since their original studies, there have been numerous studies conducted comparing usual care with usual care plus a doula.
The labor support studies done in North America have shown that women cared for during labor by a birth doula, compared to those receiving usual labor care were:
26% less likely to give birth by cesarean section
41% less likely to give birth with a vacuum extractor or forceps
28% less likely to use any analgesia or anesthesia
33% less likely to be dissatisfied with their birth experience
"The quality of emotional care received by the mother during labor,
birth and immediately afterwards is one vital factor that can strengthen
or weaken the emotional ties between mother and child."
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The Birth Doula's Contribution to Modern Maternity Care