Numerous clinical studies have found that a doula's presence at birth
- Tends to result in shorter labors with fewer complications
- Reduces negative feelings about one's childbirth experience
- Reduces the need for Pitocin (a labor-inducing drug), forceps or vacuum extraction and cesareans
- Reduces the mother's request for pain medication and/or epidurals
Research shows parents who receive support can
- Feel more secure and cared for
- Are more successful in adapting to new family dynamics
- Have greater success with breastfeeding
- Have greater self-confidence
- Have less postpartum depression
- Have lower incidence of abuse
–DONA