What is a doula?
A doula is a trained labor support person. A doula provides constant support during labor and birth.

What can a doula do for me?
A doula can help guide you through labor. She will help you with a birth plan before your birth time and work with other health care providers to implement the plan during your birth time. A doula will also be experienced in comfort techniques and offer a calm presence. Your doula will stay with you throughout your labor to make sure all your needs are met. Your doula can also help explain medical procedures and assist you in evaluating all your options so you can make decisions that are right for you.

Have any studies been done about doulas?
Yes! The most comprehensive study was done in 1991. Researchers found that when a doula was present there was a:

50% reduction in cesarean rates
25% reduction in length of labor
40% reduction in the use of forceps
40%reduction in the use of pitocin
30% reduction in the need for pain medication
60% reduction in requests for epidural anesthesia

Kennel, et al, JAMA, May 1, 1991, Vol. 265, No. 17.
Additional studies have corroborated these findings.

Will a doula detract from my husband’s role as support person?
Absolutely not! A doula can help your partner enjoy the birth experience more fully. She will be a resource for him. She can guide him and suggest comfort techniques during the birth time. She will also ease his anxiety in this unfamiliar territory, allowing him to be fully present for you. Your doula can also run any errands for food or drink so your partner can remain with you at all times.

How is a doula different from a midwife or nurse?
A doula performs no medical procedures. A doula provides physical and emotional support.  She will also be with you the entire time of your birth, unlike many other medical professionals.

I am a very private person; won’t a doula be distracting?
A doula can actually help assure your privacy is protected by creating a buffer between you and those entering your room. She will know your preferences and work to make sure they are respected.