IN LABOR

Doula care has been extensively studied in scientific trials. The results indicate improved physical and psychological outcomes for both baby and mother. Studies have found shorter labors, less use of drugs to start or augment labor, fewer deliveries using forceps and vacuum extractors, fewer episiotomies, and fewer requests for pain medication in women who had a doula compared to those who did not. The cesarean rate is 50 percent lower for women who have doula care.